Sarasota branches out with more trees for residents

The city of Sarasota is providing more trees to its residents, this time examples that are up to waist high and a smaller number that are closer to shade-tree status.

In April, city tree giveaways received exceptional interest. During the city’s tree giveaway at The Bay Park, residents expressed so much interest that, after claiming the first 100 free trees in 64 minutes, the city provided 50 additional trees given away on the second day.

The city is partnering with the Arbor Day Foundation to provide 200 free trees for Sarasota residents (100 provided by the city and a 100-tree match by the foundation). These are small trees that will be delivered directly to residents. Residents can register here for a chance at one of five species:

• Live oak
• Bald cypress
• Thuja green giant
• Chaste tree
• Crape myrtle

The Neighborhood Canopy Program, the second program, provides 2-inch caliper trees to residents. For the NCP, residents will pay $100, with the city covering the remainder of the cost up to $500. This includes delivery and professional planting of the selected tree between the front of the resident's house and the right of way. Residents have until Aug. 22 to register for the Neighborhood Canopy Program, with delivery/planting of these trees taking place in the first two weeks of September. Residents can participate in the NCP by emailing [email protected]. 

Ten species are available:

• Magnolia
• Shady lady
• Southern red cedar
• Japanese blueberry
• Winged elm
• Live oak
• Green buttonwood
• Royal poinciana
• Ligustrum
• Sycamore