Orders for Free Tiny Trees Officially Open to Des Moines Residents

Des Moines, Iowa- Wednesday, February 11, 2026 - Des Moines residents can now place orders for up to five tree seedlings to plant on their own property. The seedlings are provided at no cost to residents through the City's Tiny Trees program, coordinated by the Public Works Department's Forestry Division.

"The Tiny Trees Giveaway is easily one of our crowning achievements," said Public Works Director Jonathan Gano. "It's a fun and exciting way for us to engage with our residents while helping the City reach its goal of expanding Des Moines' urban forest. "

The Forestry Division has given away tens of thousands of trees to Des Moines residents since the program debuted in 2017. Species differ from year to year, both to offer a fun variety for residents and to increase species diversity.

"Planting a wide range of species into our community helps us build a more resilient urban forest that's less likely to suffer major losses from pests or disease," said City Forester Shane McQuillan. "We're also offering more forager-friendly trees that go beyond the aesthetic and environmental benefits."

Many of this year's Tiny Trees have high foraging value thanks to their fruits, nuts and saps. The white pine's needles can even be used in teas.

Residents have eight tree species to choose from for 2026:

• Kentucky Coffeetree
• Northern Pecan
• Sugar Maple
• Sycamore
• Aroniaberry
• Redbud
• Wild Plum
• White Pine

Orders will be accepted through Sunday, April 19, or until inventory runs out. Residents can pick up their orders at the Tiny Trees Giveaway on Saturday, April 25, at Polk County River Place (2309 Euclid Avenue) from 8 a.m. to noon.

Residents can order trees, sign up to volunteer and learn more about the program at DSM.city/TinyTrees.

Contact
Youssef Ghazali
Communications Specialist, City Manager's Office
(515) 979-9276
[email protected]

About the City of Des Moines

The City of Des Moines is Iowa's capital city and our 17 departments serve more than 214,000 residents and 46 neighborhoods, over 4,000 acres of parkland and 81 miles of trails. The City of Des Moines stands to be a financially strong city with exceptional city services, fostering an involved community in a customer friendly atmosphere.

Visit DSM.city, Facebook and X(Twitter) for more information.