If you’re looking for a reason to pick up a couple of new plant babies for your balcony or backyard, consider this your sign. The first week of October, North Vancouver’s Urban Tree Canopy Festival is back, and organizers are giving out free trees and shrubs to residents who register for the program.
In an effort to create a more biodiverse and healthier urban tree canopy, the District is providing free outdoor plants to those living in houses, apartments, or condos. So no matter the size of your space, there’s a plant with your name on it!
The urban tree canopy not only houses a diverse array of wildlife; it has numerous environmental and health benefits for the communities it surrounds. According to the District of North Vancouver, this includes temperature regulation for nearby buildings, less rain runoff into the sewer system, and filtering out air pollutants. Tree canopies capture and store carbon, stabilizing soils and allowing for better connectivity between natural habitats. In essence: nature works with us and for us, as long as we take care of it.
The expanded program dates back to 2022, when the District began offering those living in apartments or condos the opportunity to pick up a plant or shrub for their balconies. The event offered all kinds of species, ranging from cedar and fir to willow trees and woolly sunflower.
With yard- and balcony-friendly plants up for grabs, all you have to do is apply while supplies last.
The pick-up event takes place on Oct. 3 and 4, 2026, so make sure you’re available on at least one of these dates before committing to a plant.
What happens after you apply?
Once you apply with your address and details, you’ll receive a confirmation email. The District will send another email approximately two weeks before plant pickup days with more info about pickup times and parking.
Note that requested species may be substituted based on availability.
Organized in partnership with Coast Salish Plant Nursery and the Wild Bird Trust, the Urban Tree Canopy Festival has gifted 7,800 trees and shrubs since its very first year in 2021.
Fall is the ideal time for planting conditions, so mark your calendars and make sure to submit your request sooner rather than later.
When: Saturday, Oct. 3 and Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026
Time: Pickup details TBA when selected
Where: Pickup details TBA when selected
Cost: Free
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