Iowa City announces return of Root for Trees program

Edited release
07/23/24

Details on Iowa City’s fifth annual Root for Trees program have been announced.

A release from the city indicates residents and businesses can apply for a voucher that subsidizes the cost of a tree. Vouchers are valid for 50% off the cost of the retail purchase price of one tree, up to $125 for a $250 tree.

Vouchers for an additional discount off retail price are available for income-eligible households, up to $225 for a $250 tree.

Participants can redeem their vouchers at the Earl May Garden Center on Lower Muscatine Road or the Iowa City Landscaping and Garden Center on Highway 1 West.

Residents and businesses must plant their tree on their Iowa City property. If they would like to plant in the Right-of-Way, a no-fee permit is required prior to tree purchase. Before any yard digging is started, residents should call Iowa One Call at 811 to ensure utilities are properly located.

The application window opens up on August 1st and runs to May 1st 2025 or while supplies last. Vouchers must be used by May 15, 2025.

Over 1300 trees have been planted in Iowa since the Root for Trees program began in 2020.

Applications and further details are available at www.icgov.org/root4trees .