Free Trees: Duke Energy and TreesUpstate Partner to Green Up the Electric City

Spring is here, and Anderson is about to get a little greener.

On Saturday, April 4th, local residents have a chance to claim free trees for their property — no strings attached, no hidden fees, just good old-fashioned community investment in the Electric City.

What's Happening

TreesUpstate, a local nonprofit dedicated to expanding urban tree canopy across the region, has partnered with Duke Energy to give away thousands of trees to Upstate residents. And Anderson is one of just five stops on their spring tour.

The giveaway runs from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at 402 N Murray Avenue in downtown Anderson. But here's the thing — these events tend to draw crowds, and some tree species are already selling out.

Why Free Trees Matter in Anderson

Let's be honest. Trees aren't just pretty landscaping.

Strategically planted shade trees can reduce home cooling costs by up to 25% during those brutal South Carolina summers. They filter air pollution, reduce stormwater runoff, and boost property values. For a city like Anderson that's balancing growth with quality of life, every tree planted is an investment in the community's future.

Plus, there's something deeply satisfying about watching a tree you planted grow alongside your family. It's the kind of long-term thinking that builds real roots — literally and figuratively.

What You Can Get

The program offers 14 different species, ranging from towering shade providers to fruit-bearing varieties. Options include:

• White oak and Northern red oak — Classic Southern shade trees that live for generations

• Eastern redbud — Those gorgeous pink spring blooms everyone loves

• Pecan and pawpaw — Because free food from your yard never gets old

• Red maple and black tupelo — Stunning fall color showstoppers

• Baldcypress — Perfect for wetter areas, and surprisingly adaptable

Each household can claim up to two trees, but you'll need to reserve them online first.

Sign up and view our species list Here

How to Claim Yours

Head to TreesUpstate.org/FreeTrees and select the Anderson event. You'll see which species are still available and can reserve your picks. Fair warning: popular varieties like redbuds and pecans tend to go fast.

On pickup day, bring proof of reservation and something to transport your trees. They're typically 3-5 gallon container trees — manageable for most vehicles, but you'll want to plan ahead.

Can't Make the Anderson Date?

The tour hits four other Upstate locations if April 4th doesn't work:

• March 27 — Nettles Park, Clemson

• April 3 — Trailblazer Park, Travelers Rest

• April 10 — JB Owens Sports Complex, Easley

• April 11 — Hub City Farmers Market, Spartanburg

The Bottom Line

Programs like this don't come around often. Free trees, expert-selected for our climate, with the backing of a major utility company that's genuinely invested in reducing energy demand? That's a win-win-win for Anderson residents.

Just remember: reservations are required, and when they're gone, they're gone. Don't wait until Friday night to sign up.

Ready to green up your corner of the Electric City? Visit TreesUpstate.org/FreeTrees and claim your spot.