New York City's goal of planting one million trees by 2030 has quickly taken root, with progress in the first 18 months far ahead of the target.

The city is offering a coupon to reduce the price of trees bought at select nurseries.Mayor Michael Bloomberg announced on Wednesday that 173,229 trees have been planted since MillionTreesNYC was launched in October 2007. The City of New York plans to plant 60% of the trees in parks and other public spaces, while the other 40% will come from private organizations, homeowners, and community organizations. The trees will cut down on energy use, increase stormwater retention and beautify neighborhoods.

The mayor also declared April "MillionTreesNYC Month," and urged all New Yorkers to plant trees in their front and backyards. The One in a Million Tree Coupon, generously supported by BNP Paribas, offers $20 off the purchase of a 1-inch caliper or larger tree at 13 select New York City garden centers and nurseries throughout the five borough.