Are you looking to spruce up your backyard or garden? You’re invited to come to one of our upcoming community events to receive up to two free shrubs or trees through Metrolinx’s vegetation giveaways. 

As we carry out the largest transit expansion in the region’s history, our goal is always to minimize the number of trees impacted by construction, and to plant more trees than are removed. 

We have partnered with organizations such as the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) and Kayanase Greenhouse from Six Nations of the Grand River for these seasonal giveaways, and to help plant trees as we make progress on construction. 

Investing in the tree canopy 

Since 2022, we have given over 3,000 trees and shrubs through community events, and there are upcoming giveaways scheduled for this spring across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA). 

Red Oak, Hackberry, Pin Oaks, Hazelnut and Spicebush are among the native species of trees that have been given away to local residents. Grey Dogwood, Nannyberry and Ninebarks shrubs have also been included in our community giveaways. To help improve the health of local ecosystems, we only provide native and pollinator species through this program. 

Representatives from the TRCA attend our giveaways and are able to help residents select the type of tree or bush that is best suited for their yards and gardens. Whether you live in wet or dry conditions or in a location with full shade, they will assist you with finding the best option for you! 

Upcoming giveaways 

Our tree giveaways take place within neighborhoods along our transit lines that can accommodate space for large trees and bushes. 

These events are open to the general public. However, to ensure everyone who attends the giveaway receives an item, we have a limit of two trees or shrubs per person.  

Scarborough Subway Extension (SSE) Tree Giveaway 
Date: June 1, 2025 
Time: 9 a.m to 12 p.m. or while supplies last
Location: Toronto Public Library - Bendale Branch, 1515 Danforth Rd, Toronto, ON M1J 1H5 
For more details, see the events page.

To read more about Metrolinx’s vegetation and tree compensation program, please visit our Vegetation and Habitats page.