Residents of California can ring in the New Year with five free crapemyrtle trees by joining the Arbor Day Foundation any time during the month of January.
“These small flowering trees will provide any landscape in California with a splash of color for much of the year,” said John Rosenow, founder and chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “Members will experience pink and red flowers in the spring, green flowers in the summer and a mix of red, orange and yellow during autumn.”
The free trees are part of the nonprofit foundation’s “Trees for America” campaign.
The trees will be shipped postpaid at the right time for planting, between Feb. 1 and April 30, with enclosed planting instructions. The 6- to 12-inch tall trees are guaranteed to grow, or they will be replaced free of charge.
Members will also receive a subscription to the foundation’s colorful bimonthly publication, “Arbor Day,” and “The Tree Book,” which includes information about tree planting and care.
According to finegardening.com, the low-maintenance crepemyrtle tree grows to a height and spread of 15 to 30 feet, requires lots of sunlight and dry to medium moisture conditions.
To receive the free trees, send a $10 membership contribution by Jan. 31 to:
5 CRAPEMYRTLES
Arbor Day Foundation
100 Arbor Avenue
Nebraska City, NE, 68410
California residents can also join online at arborday.org/january.