The Littleton Country Gardeners and the Littleton Shade Tree Committee carry on a beloved tradition more than 30 years in the making: every third grader at Russell Street Elementary will receive a young tulip tree (Liriodendron tulipifera) to plant and care for at home.

A native of North American forests, the tulip tree is one of the largest and longest-lived trees on the continent — capable of reaching 100 feet tall and living 200 to 300 years. Its tulip-shaped leaves, sweet-scented spring blooms, and remarkable ability to capture carbon make it both a delight and a meaningful gift to the next generation of Littleton tree-keepers.

Each sapling comes with simple planting and care instructions, so families can give their tree the best possible start.

This event takes place during the school day at Russell Street Elementary and is for enrolled third graders. To learn how to support or volunteer with the program, contact the Littleton Country Gardeners.