Tree Giveaway

Who can participate

To enter for a chance to receive a free tree, participants must:

• Be a Norfolk County resident
• Commit to planting the tree on private property within Norfolk County
• Have permission from the property owner, if applicable
• Be able to pick up the tree on Saturday, May 2, 2026

How the draw works

Trees will be distributed through a lottery‑style draw. 

When registering, residents will be asked to select their top three tree choices. Choosing more than one species improves the chance of receiving a tree. 

Tree assignments will be based on availability. Only one tree per household will be provided. 

Successful applicants will be notified by email after the draw. 

Before you plant

Before digging, residents must contact Ontario One Call to locate underground utilities. 

This free service helps prevent damage and keeps everyone safe. 

Visit OntarioOneCall.ca before planting.

Why plant a tree?

Trees provide long‑term benefits for residents, neighbourhoods, and the environment. They:

• Provide shade and help cool homes and yards 
• Absorb rainwater and reduce the risk of flooding 
• Improve air quality and help reduce climate change impacts 
• Support birds, insects, and other wildlife 
• Improve neighbourhoods and increase property values 

Protecting and growing Norfolk County’s tree canopy helps build a healthier, more climate‑resilient community. 

Tree species available

Red Maple (Acer rubrum)

Quantity available: 50 
Container size: 3 gallons
Height at pickup: approximately 175–200 cm

• Fast‑growing tree with bright red fall colour 
• Adapts well to a wide range of soil conditions 
• Provides excellent shade and attracts wildlife

Canada Serviceberry (Amelanchier canadensis)

Quantity available: 50 
Container size: 2 gallons
Height at pickup: approximately 150–175 cm

• One of the first native trees to flower in spring
• Produces edible berries for birds and people
• Offers four‑season visual interest

White birch (Betula papyrifera)

Quantity available: 30 
Container size: 2 gallons
Height at pickup: approximately 150–175 cm

• Distinctive white bark that peels naturally 
• Grows well in cooler climates 
• Adds natural beauty and character to landscapes

Eastern redbud (Cercis canadensis)

Quantity available: 50 
Container size: 2 gallons
Height at pickup: approximately 125–150 cm

• Pink‑purple flowers in early spring 
• Smaller tree suited for residential yards 
• Important early food source for pollinators 

Eastern flowering dogwood (Cornus florida)

Quantity available: 50 
Container size: 1 gallon 
Height at pickup: approximately 100–125 cm

• Showy white spring blooms 
• Red berries that attract birds in fall 
• Native tree with year‑round ornamental value

Tulip‑tree (Liriodendron tulipifera) 

Quantity available: 20 
Container size: 2 gallons 
Height at pickup: approximately 150–175 cm 

• Tall, fast‑growing tree best suited for larger properties 
• Distinctive tulip‑shaped flowers 
• Bright yellow fall colour 

Blackgum (Nyssa sylvatica) 

Quantity available: 20 
Container size: 2 gallons 
Height at pickup: approximately 100–125 cm 

• Strong structure with good wind resistance 
• Outstanding red and purple fall colours 
• Supports birds and other wildlife

Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) 

Quantity available: 50 
Container size: 2 gallons
Height at pickup: approximately 175–200 cm 

• Large native shade tree with peeling, patterned bark 
• Fast‑growing and long‑lived 
• Best suited for properties with more space 

Black cherry (Prunus serotina) 

Quantity available: 40 
Container size: 2 gallons
Height at pickup: approximately 125–150 cm 

• Fragrant white spring flowers 
• Produces fruit enjoyed by birds and wildlife 
• Grows well in a variety of soil conditions