Environment Hamilton wants to help you spruce up your yard and help the environment at the same time.

The organization is partnering with the Hamilton Naturalists’ Club to hold a massive free tree giveaway to residents in the city.

There are more than 1,300 trees up for grabs. Ten varieties of native trees are available that range from small to large in size. The smaller trees can grow up to 10 metres in height while the largest can reach up to 35 metres.

“We know that 60 per cent of the urban tree cover canopy is the result of trees planted in private property,” said Executive Director Linda Lukasik. “We also know that, in order to improve air quality and combat the urban heat island effect caused by climate change that we need to achieve at least a 40 per cent urban canopy cover.”

Lukasik said Hamilton currently has somewhere between 19 and 22 per cent cover including the Niagara Escarpment.

Residents can visit Environment Hamilton’s website to submit a request for a tree.

There is a limit of one tree per household and residents must be able to transport the tree on their own.

The trees are in a one-to-two gallon pot and are approximately one metre tall. According to the website, residents should be able to transport the trees by car, in a bike pannier, or in a wagon if walking.

Environment Hamilton says the giveaway is made possible with the support from Trees for Life.

The deadline to request a tree is Monday, October 4 at 5 p.m.