Each planting season will have a list of around 10 available species for planting. These are species selected to grow well in our climate and to meet certain metrics designated by the USDA Forest Service. Tree selection will be focused on prioritizing native species where possible. There will be large shade trees, small ornamental trees, and narrow growing trees available each planting season. Fruit trees will be available depending on local supply.

We maintain a safe distance from utility lines, which are clearly marked so we know their location. Tree roots grow toward water sources. When they interfere with utilities, it’s often because a leaking pipe attracts them. To reduce this risk, we use slow, deep watering to encourage roots to grow downward toward the natural water table instead of toward pipes.

We would love to chat with your landlord regarding the planting of trees on the property. It would be helpful if you talked with your landlord ahead of time regarding your interest in trees, but all we need from you is your landlord’s contact information and we can reach out to them regarding this process. We cannot give away free trees to an address without the legal property owner's permission. 

The free trees may be planted anywhere on your property. Upon request, Branching Out staff can provide an on-site visit to help determine the best planting location.

Yes. We can source apple, pear, plum, cherry, and peach trees. Varieties depend on the season and local availability.

If the tree is planted on your property, it is your responsibility to take care of this tree. Rest assured, we will help set you and your tree up for long-term success and survivability. The Branching Out staff is available to answer questions and perform site visits year-round. If you requested a street tree, one that is planted between the sidewalk and road, then the City will take care of the tree.

Avoid frequent, light watering. Shallow watering doesn’t encourage strong root growth. Instead, water deeply about once a week, allowing the water to soak into the root system.

During prolonged dry spells, give your tree a deep soak by placing a garden hose about 6 inches from the trunk and letting it run slowly. Move the hose occasionally around the root ball. At medium pressure, it takes about five minutes to produce 10 gallons of water. For small trees, running the hose for about five minutes on each side of the root ball is typically sufficient.

Each tree planted through Branching Out Dubuque comes with a TreeDiaper® to help retain moisture throughout the summer. The TreeDiaper is a donut-shaped ring filled with water-absorbing materials. Before first use, “charge” each half by soaking it in water for several hours. Place it around the tree, leaving at least a 2-inch gap between the diaper and the trunk, and cover it with the provided mulch.

If your TreeDiaper becomes damaged, please contact Branching Out staff. We are happy to replace it at no cost.

After a tree has been in the ground for about two years, weekly watering is generally no longer necessary, and the TreeDiaper may no longer be as effective.

At this stage, trees benefit more from occasional deep watering rather than frequent watering. A periodic deep soak, using a hose or a bucket, helps ensure water reaches the deeper root system. Mature tree roots are often 1 to 2 feet below the ground, so deep watering encourages strong, resilient growth.

Yes. Mulch provides many benefits for young trees. Mulched soil stays warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer than bare soil. A layer of mulch also helps reduce moisture loss by preventing sunlight from heating the soil, which means less watering is needed during hot summer months.

Mulch can also protect young trees from damage caused by lawn mowers and string trimmers.

When applying mulch, be sure to leave at least 2 inches of bare soil around the trunk. Build your mulch ring like a donut, not like a volcano. Keeping mulch away from the trunk helps prevent rot and other damage.

A street tree is planted in the area between a sidewalk and the road. This area can be known as a parkway, tree lawn, sidewalk buffer, nature strip, boulevard, curb strip or hellstrip. Street trees are cared for by the City.

To request a street tree, fill out a tree planting request form on the City of Dubuque website, and City staff will follow up with you!

To request a street tree near your home or business be replaced or removed, please contact the City of Dubuque Parks and Recreation Department at 563-589-4263.

We welcome volunteers of all ages. Anyone can volunteer! Individuals under 18 will need parental permission. Families, kids, young adults, and community groups are all encouraged to participate.

If you would like to volunteer, either as an individual or as a group, please fill out a volunteer interest form on the Dubuque Trees Forever website.

We are excited to have you join us in helping neighbors plant their trees!

Any homeowner, business, non-profit, church, etc., who are located in the designated Branching Out eligibility areas, or income-qualified residential property owners located anywhere in the Dubuque city limits.

Here is a clear, resident-friendly FAQ version that simplifies the language while keeping the requirements precise:

How does income qualification work?

If you live outside the Branching Out eligibility areas but your household income is at or below 80 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI), you may still qualify to receive free tree(s).

To apply, please complete the interest form and indicate that you qualify based on income. You will need to provide one of the following documents as proof of eligibility:

• City of Dubuque Housing Choice Voucher (HCV), formerly Section 8

• Proof of participation in a City of Dubuque housing program within the past 6 months, such as Housing Trust Fund, CDBG, or Housing TIF

• Current-year eligibility letter for Family Investment Program (FIP), Women, Infants, and Children Program (WIC), or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Letters must be included for all adult household members.

• HAWKI ID card

• Proof of Hawkeye Area Community Action Program (HACAP) assistance

• Proof of City of Dubuque Utility Assistance

If you are unsure whether you qualify, we encourage you to fill out an interest form or contact us for assistance.