Planting trees can offer a number of different benefits, both for the environment and for society. Not only do they work to improve air quality, but they also enhance the beauty of landscapes, parks and urban environments, providing shade and encouraging outdoor recreation.
The City of Toronto recently announced that it is hoping to increase its tree canopy to 40 per cent by 2050. One way the city is encouraging homeowners to participate in achieving this goal is by applying to have a free tree planted on a public space near their property.
So how does one go about requesting a tree for free? Here’s all you need to know about Toronto’s tree planting program.
Make a Request
A property owner can submit a tree planting request by calling 311 or by submitting their request online. Once submitted, the City’s staff will visit the site to determine the ideal planting location as well as confirm the species of tree to be planted.
Notice of Planned Tree Planting
The City can also recommend that a tree be planted on a public space near your property.
If your address is selected to receive a free tree planting, you will receive a Notice of Planned Tree Planting in your mailbox. This will detail why this planting has been planned, the proposed planting location, the proposed tree species and an approximate time frame for planting.
If for whatever reason you wish to cancel a recommended tree planting or if you have any questions or concerns, call 311 within three weeks of the proposed planting date.
Tree Species Selection
Tree species and planting location are often chosen and confirmed depending on a number of factors that are evaluated at the time of onsite evaluation. These include the availability of space, soil conditions and sunlight, presence of underground utilities or overhead wires, etc. To learn more about what species are available to plant, visit the link here.
During Tree Planting
On the day someone from the city comes to plant a tree, it is your responsibility to ensure that there is a 1.5 meter by 1.5 meter clearance around the proposed site. Remove any items that may get in the way of planting. The City does not claim responsibility for any damages made to private property located on the City-owned road allowance.
Tree Maintenance
Trees planted near streets can often face difficult growing conditions. Therefore, it’s important to help care for a newly planted tree by watering it for the first two to three years while the tree becomes established. You’ll also receive a notice with additional tree care information will be provided at the time of planting.
Other maintenance, such as pruning, fertilizing, or staking, is performed by the City when needed. If the tree requires any additional maintenance beyond what is expected, a service request may be submitted by calling 311.
Overall, planting trees is a cost-effective and sustainable way to address various environmental, social, and economic challenges. Consider requesting your own using the City of Toronto’s tree planting program and observe all the benefits firsthand.
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