National Tree Day

In celebration of National Tree Day, we offer Saanich residents a FREE tree to plant on your private property.

Registration is now closed - We have reached capacity for our 2026 Tree Giveaway. Please check back again next year for another opportunity to receive a free tree!


Who qualifies for a FREE tree?

  • Must be a Saanich resident
  • One tree per household
  • Trees are to be planted on private land not in municipal Parks or boulevard
  • Giveaway trees are not to be counted as "replacement trees" for an active Tree Cutting Permit

How do I sign up for a FREE tree?

Thank you for your interest in a free tree! We are currently completely sold out, and no additional trees are available.

We hope you’ll join us again next year for another opportunity to receive a free tree!


When and where will my tree be available for pickup?

Pick-up will be available on Saturday, November 7th, 2026 at Hyacinth Park from 9am to 12 noon, coinciding with Tree Appreciation Day for those who pre-registered. All species will be between 2'-3' (60 to 90 cm) tall in 5 or 7 gallon pots. Parks staff will be onsite to provide trees to pre-registered Saanich residents and provide tree planting and aftercare information. A pick up reminder email will go out to all pre-registered participants prior to the event. 

What Tree Species can I select for my FREE tree?

  • Black Hawthorn (SOLD OUT) is a small tree native to British Columbia growing to about 8 meters (26’) that have white showy flowers in clusters in early spring, but they also don sharp thorns, about 3 cm long. Their leaves are thick and leathery and the black drupe fruit forms in the summer and provide food for birds in the winter. They grow best in full sun conditions. 
  • Shore Pine (SOLD OUT) is an evergreen tree which grows to a height of 15 meters (49’) in a somewhat sprawling and irregular form. This native conifer grows along the Pacific Ocean shorelines. Shore Pine is highly adaptable to many soil conditions, wet or dry.
  • Garry Oak (SOLD OUT) is a slow growing native tree reaching up to 20 meters (65') at maturity, with an open spreading canopy. The acorns are consumed by local wildlife, and in undisturbed sites many native wildflowers can be found in their surrounding ecosystem. This is an extremely drought tolerant tree. 
  • Douglas Fir (SOLD OUT) is one of our largest maturing conifers reaching soaring heights of up to 85 meters (278'). Douglas fir is tolerant of a wide range of soil type, exposure and elevation. The dark green foliage of the Douglas fir acts as the steady and consistent back drop for much of Vancouver Island and plays an essential ecology supporting role in our forests and landscapes. Many animals rely on Douglas-fir seeds and the tree provides habitat for many native birds.
  • Pacific Serviceberry (SOLD OUT) is a deciduous shrub or small tree growing 7 meters (23'). White flowers in the early spring give way to dark purple pomme fruits in summer. These berries are enjoyed by both wildlife and people, and the fruits can be eaten fresh or dried. They adapt well, but heavy clay and wet soils should be avoided. 
  • Pacific Crab Apple (SOLD OUT) is a small tree growing to 12 meters (39') tall. Spring blooms have an apple-blossom scent and appear in clusters in the early season. Pacific crab apple grows along the British Columbia coast and do best in areas with moist soils.