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What Happens at a "10,000 Trees" Planting?
You have decided that tree planting on a
Saturday morning is your type of leisure activity.
But what do I need? How do I plant? What
precautions should I take?
Planting trees is an easy process but
there are some things to consider before you get started.
Wardrobe: The way you dress for the occasion is
important. Dress for the weather. Loose clothes can get
caught on existing vegetation and don't forget a brimmed hat
and sunscreen on hot days. Some plantings are in existing
naturalized areas so insect repellant is a must. Avoid wearing sandals.
It's tempting on a hot day, but they provide little support for your
ankles. Sandals expose your feet to cuts and rashes. Steel toe boots
are ideal, but not necessary, hiking boots or cross trainer runners
will do.
Hydration:
Sufficient water is needed to
prevent dehydration. A snack may be needed to replace nutrients.
Refreshments will be provided, but it is suggested that you bring a
water bottle.
Plant Safe:
Shovels are provided. If you have pre-school children a
hand shovel maybe the best option. Large shovels can turn into
weapons in the hands of young children. If you are moving wheel
barrels or recycling bins don't overload, lift with your legs, not
your back.
Be Respectful:
When arriving at the planting, park away from the site.
If planting in residential areas, respect surrounding homeowner's
properties and the parking by-laws.
Planting Trees is as Easy as
1 - 2 - 3
STEP 1:
Preparing
At a 10,000 trees planting native
species plants are used if possible. The trees and the
planting area will be provided for you. Plants ma y even be
positioned by Forestry staff. This is not your natural habitat so
look out for animal burrows, bee nests, groundhogs and other
wildlife. If you discover any hidden utility lines or other foreign
hazards inform staff members. Keep three paces away from any hard
surfaces such as sidewalks, curbs, waterways or buildings. Some
areas may need more buffer as advised by staff. You need to be aware
of mature canopy growth when planting new trees. If planting shrubs
one pace separation is ideal, plant in odd numbers of three or five
works best. This gives a dense long term growth. A triangle grid is
ideal for shrubs.
On hilly locations it's best to plant on
the lower end of the hill. This reduces the chance of losing your
balance and falling. Clear any lose debris or vegetation from your
desired planting location. This makes it easier to dig and reduces
the initial vegetation competition with planted trees or shrubs.
STEP 2:
Planting
You may be planting bare root trees or
container vegetation. Ensure the hole is large enough so the bare
root plant does not have
 tangled roots. If the hole is too shallow,
the earth will not be able to support the tree. You don't want any
roots poking through the soil surface. If too deep, you will bury
the trunk.
When container planting; set the plant
in the desired location and dig slits about ten centimeters apart
around the pot. This will give an accurate width. Remove the plant
from the pot and loosen the root and soil mix. This helps wake the
tree roots and allows for better soil to root contact. When adding
soil to bare root or container plants, ensure that there are no air
pockets; use your fingers to remove air pockets by adding additional
soil.
STEP 3:
Protecting
Don't forget the mulch. Mulch can make
or break the planting. It protects the roots and base of the tree
from animals and cold Canadian winters. Mulch will also retain
moisture and nutrients; it cools roots and soil during drought while
increasing the stability of the tree. Ideally you should build a
mounded ring of mulch about ten centimeters from the stem. This will
reduce the chance of mold or rot around the base of the plant. It
will also act as a reservoir for water retention.
Tree guards should be wrapped around the
bottom of the stem. Guards will protect the tree from animals and
adverse weather conditions. Watch not to pinch newly formed
branches.
Wow you just planted your first
tree!
That wasn't so hard… maybe even
enjoyable. You have just increased oxygen production and filtered
pollutants. You may have added a windbreak or reduced local traffic
noise.
Planting on hills is especially
important for erosion and water control. Animals will be happy with
more habitat and food sources; or some shade during a hot summer
day. You have improved the appearance and the valve of the
surrounding properties.
Where's my next tree?
When you are done, don't forget to
return your shovel and waste. Using waste bins instead of the ground
is one way to be a proactive environmental steward.
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