Arbor Day has long been a springtime tradition in the U.S. In 1872, President Theodore Roosevelt declared April 10 Arbor Day in recognition of the planting of one million trees in Nebraska. Roosevelt, a well-known conservationist, declared that the day should be one where children plant trees, among other activities. However, it wasn't until 1905 that the day was officially recognized in the Hawaiian territory. That year, November 3 was deemed Arbor Day Hawaii, and the tradition continues today, with botanical gardens and other sites around the islands distributing seedlings for residents to plant.

The History of Arbor Day in Hawaii

Arbor Day in Hawaii began as a day where schoolchildren planted trees and shrubs around their schools. More than 3,000 trees were planted during that first celebration by children — and citizens of the islands joined in, planting an additional 3,500 seedlings. Every year since, children have planted trees in early November. Awards are given to the classes that best cared for their trees. 

It wasn't until the early 1990s that the custom of giving away seedlings to the public for Arbor Day became tradition. Many island organizations and businesses, including Hawaiian Electric and the Urban Garden Center, have partnered to grow thousands of tree seedlings to give away each year. Residents can visit any of the distribution sites around Oahu, including the botanical gardens at Waimea Valley, for a free seedling of a native Hawaiian tree species.

Seedling Giveaway at Waimea Valley

Waimea Valley is giving away free Hawaiian native coastal plants in observance of the Arbor Day tree seedling giveaway. On November 6 and November 13, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., visit Waimea Valley's botanical nursery during their weekly plant sale and receive a free seedling for one of several different plants, including Milo, Ukiuki, 'Ohai. Ice Cream Bean, Henna, Stephanotis, and more. The giveaway will take place in the botanical garden nursery. Be sure to follow the directional signage.

When you receive your seedling, you'll also receive planting and care instructions. The most important instruction is to mulch around the tree in order to help protect the roots from temperature fluctuations, prevent weed growth, and help retain moisture. Tree seedlings should be watered when the weather is hot, dry, and windy. Deep, infrequent waterings done early in the morning are best. 

As your plant grows, you may need to add fertilizer and prune branches. The arborists at the botanical gardens can provide instructions and advice if needed. 

Add a beautiful plant to your property and celebrate Arbor Day with a visit Waimea Valley in Haleiwa for a free seedling. On November 6 and 13, from 8 a.m .to 12p.m., each household can get a native tree seedling in the botanical nursery. While you are there, plan to explore the botanical garden, a 45-foot natural waterfall, and preserved archeological sites. Visit their website to start planning your visit or call (808) 638-7766 today with questions.