EDWARDSVILLE – The City of Edwardsville’s long-running Tree Planting Program is once again available, with higher reimbursements being offered for certain types of trees in an effort to grow the City’s tree canopy.
Get The Latest News!
Don't miss our top stories and need-to-know news everyday in your inbox.
The program is an initiative of the Edwardsville Environmental Commission; approved applicants could be reimbursed up to $200 to buy and plant a tree at their Edwardsville property. In previous years, the reimbursement offered was up to half the purchase and planting cost, totaling no more than $100. For fall 2026, it’s not limited to half the cost incurred by the property owner, nor is it capped at $100.
Approved applicants who purchase and plant small/ornamental trees or evergreen trees in a front or back yard or purchase and plant a shade tree in a back yard will be reimbursed up to $100. Approved applicants who purchase and plant a shade tree in a front yard will be reimbursed up to $200.
“The committee chose to remove the required spending match because we wanted to make planting a tree as easy as possible and accessible to even more people,” said Sarah Cundiff, the chairman of the Edwardsville Environmental Commission. “We know there can be obstacles to adding a tree to a property, but cost shouldn’t be one of them. We hope to encourage more residents to take advantage of the program and help expand Edwardsville’s urban forest.” To be eligible for reimbursement, the property owner must submit an application to be approved by City staff prior to final selection and planting of a tree. Only trees listed on the City’s approved tree list can be considered for the program, which is offered on a first come, first served basis while funding is available. Previous program participants are eligible to apply. Applications are available on the City’s website and must be received by the City by November 1, 2026.
Once the application has been approved, the tree must be purchased by December 15, 2026, and planted and the receipts turned in no later than December 31, 2026. More details about the Tree Planting Program, including the approved tree list and an online and printable application, are available at www.cityofedwardsville.com/plantatree Cundiff noted that while many people look to add a tree in the spring, fall is actually the preferred planting time for trees. She said the commission’s webpage also offers resources to help property owners determine the right tree for their needs and location. The Edwardsville Environmental Commission is a volunteer-led group that collaborates with the City on beautification projects, including municipal landscaping and plantings.
The Tree Planting Program and the annual Green Thumb Awards are two of the commission’s long-running initiatives
