Instead of a “free” tree from your municipality, why not plant a micro forest in your front yard that is more likely to survive, offers habitat and will shade your yard in the future.

Place cardboard down as soon as you can, cover it with about 4″ of wood shavings and let it all sit for a few seasons. Once autumn comes and the trees are ready for planting, sink your shovel into rich soil and plant your trees and shrubs. Water them in and keep an eye on their water needs for the first year.