Düsseldorf’s Your Tree Initiative Returns with Record Demand for Urban Greenery
Düsseldorf’s Your Tree initiative has returned for its fourth round, offering residents the chance to plant new trees in their gardens. Since launching in 2021, the scheme has seen strong public interest, with 650 trees already planted across the city. This year, 225 trees have been requested in just the first few days since applications opened on October 17, 2024.
The initiative provides three types of trees: 125 fruit trees, 50 bee-friendly species, and 50 climate-adapted varieties. Among the fruit trees are three apple types, two new pear varieties, and the popular Blue Kölner. Bee trees include insect-friendly species such as chokecherry, plum, and mahogany cherry, chosen to support local pollinators.
Each tree costs 35 euros, with buyers agreeing to plant and maintain it long-term. The city’s garden department oversees the scheme, which aims to boost biodiversity and help Düsseldorf adapt to climate change. Since its start, the programme has grown steadily, with high demand in every round. By October 2024, 225 of the available trees had already been claimed. The initiative does not specify which species sold out first this year, but previous rounds saw quick uptake across all categories.
The scheme continues to expand green spaces in private gardens while encouraging residents to take an active role in urban ecology. With 650 trees planted so far and another 225 already requested, the initiative remains a key part of Düsseldorf’s environmental efforts. The city plans to keep supporting the programme in future years.
