The Greening works with neighborhood and community groups to plant trees mostly on the city berms and City Parks. However, you may want to plant your own tree in your yard.  Here are step by step guidelines for you to ensure you not only plant your tree correctly, but how to care for it. 

What are your goals? 

What kind of tree do you want? Then pick the right spot, or; 

Check out our list of RECOMMENDED TREES

I have the spot what kind of tree will fit there?

Different species of trees have different characteristics. Some trees, like flowering ornamentals rarely grow taller than 30 feet. Others like a Ginkgo biloba or Bur Oak tree can grow well over 80 feet tall under the appropriate conditions.  So you either need to decide the right tree for the space you want to plant, or the right space for the tree you want.  Do your research before you go shopping. 

-Call Miss Dig first to mark out utilities in your yard to avoid planting on top of gas or electric lines
-If power lines are present directly overhead, plant a small stature tree that will grow no more than 30 ft tall. Recommended species include: Serviceberry, Dogwood, Eastern Redbud and Hawthorn.
-Consider planting native species. Native trees are well adapted to Michigan’s climate and weather patterns, aiding in higher survival rates. Planting natives also benefits wildlife populations, such as birds and pollinators, that depend on these trees fruits and nuts as a food source. Recommended large species include: Oaks, Hackberry, Blackgum, White Pine, and Basswood.

When is the best time to plant a tree?

We recommend planting in either the early spring or fall. That time of year is when trees are going “dormant” and are less likely to be shocked from being transplanted into a new location.

Where to purchase a Tree? 

We think that going to a nursery or landscaping business would be better than purchasing from a big box store like Home Depot or Lowes, however they do sometimes have some good deals on smaller trees.  Here is a list of some of our favorite spots around town.

I bought my tree, now what? 

How much water does a newly planted tree require?

Watering newly planted trees is the best way to ensure the tree’s survival. Each tree requires 15-20 gallons of water a week (equivalent to 3-4 large buckets full). Poor the water slowly on top of the roots to help the tree establish into the ground.

Resources

Tree Planting in Michigan. An indepth look from Michigan State