Located about an hour west of Phoenix, Boyce Thompson Arboretum invites residents to the ceremonial planting of the first trees of the 100 Tree Spree.

Kicking off their centennial celebration, the Arboretum is partnering with public institutions, schools and nonprofits in planting 100 native trees (for free) throughout the Valley and its neighboring communities from October through December.

Click here to apply for the 100 Tree Spree.

The first trees will be planted starting at 9 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 23 at Boyce Thompson Arboretum, 37615 E. Arboretum Way, in Superior.

“As we face a future impacted by climate change, we know that stewardship of the land and all creatures is vital. An effective way to combat the many pressures our environment is facing from the ongoing climate crisis is to plant trees,” an Arboretum press release states. “Trees provide shade, thus reducing energy costs, clean our air, offset carbon emissions, improve water quality and promote biodiversity.”

Boyce Thompson Arboretum, Arizona's oldest and largest botanical garden, is managed by the nonprofit Boyce Thompson Southwestern Arboretum 501(c)(3). The 372-acre facility has nearly five miles of paths and trails through plant exhibits from 11 of the world's deserts, a native riparian habitat and colorful specialty gardens.