Tree Planting

If you find a boulevard location that could benefit from a tree, you can request one by contacting us.

A Town Forestry representative will inspect the site to determine if it qualifies for planting.

• If the location meets our requirements, your request will be added to the next available planting schedule.

• If the site does not qualify and the boulevard is adjacent to your property, we’ll leave a notice explaining why. Not all locations are suitable for planting due to site limitations, which may include limited space, underground utilities, obstructions such as streetlights, hydro wires, or signage.

Tree planting occurs twice a year, during the following seasons:

Spring: April to June

Fall: October to late November

To help young trees thrive, the Town attaches watering bags to newly planted trees as part of our two-year watering program, running from June to October (weather permitting).

• Watering bags are removed for the winter and reinstalled in spring.

• After two years, the bags are permanently removed as the tree becomes more established.

How Can You Help?

You can make a big difference in keeping our street trees healthy and strong. A little care, like watering during hot, dry spells and keeping the area around the tree free of rocks, stones, or other hard materials can go a long way.

Available Space 

Will the tree have enough room to grow to its full size above and below ground 

Soil Conditions 

Is the soil type suitable, and does it provide adequate drainage?

Sunlight Exposure

Does the location receive full sun, partial shade, or full shade?

Nearby Infrastructure:

• Below-ground: Are there utilities such as gas lines, water mains, sewer pipes, or irrigation systems nearby? Ensure the tree is planted a safe distance away.                                                                                  
• Above-ground: is there enough clearance from fences, sheds, decks, or buildings? Consider the tree's mature size to avoid future conflicts.

• Consult an ISA-certified arborist for professional advice on species selection and placement.

• Explore programs like LEAF, which provide guidance and support for planting trees on private property.

For about 50% of the full cost (the rest subsidized by the Town and Durham Region), you’ll receive:

• An on-site consultation with a certified arborist
  
• A 5 to 8-foot tree (2 to 4 feet for evergreens)
• Tree delivery and full planting service
• Mulch and planting/care guide

Prefer planting yourself? LEAF also offers a DIY option:

• Includes a virtual consultation
• A 5 to 8-foot tree (2 to 4 feet for evergreens)
• Tree delivery (property owner plants)
• Mulch and planting/care guide

If you have plantable land for at least 100 trees, the program can help you:

• Establish a new forest

• Expand or connect existing woodlots

• Naturalize open areas

• Plant along streams, wetlands, or other natural features

Participants benefit from:

• Increased property value

• Reduced maintenance and energy costs

• Improved privacy

• Healthier water and wildlife habitat

• Potential to qualify for up to 75% property tax reduction through Ontario’s Managed Forest Tax Incentive Program (for eligible properties)

Young trees need deep, consistent watering during their first few years to develop a strong root system. As they grow, they will require less frequent watering.

Best practices:

• Use a slow trickle with a hose for about 45 minutes, or slowly pour five buckets of water around the tree.

• Water 2–3 feet away from the base to encourage wide root growth.

• Water in the evening to reduce evaporation.

Watering Schedule for a Young Tree (2-Inch Trunk Diameter)

Adjust Based on Soil Type:

Mulch helps retain soil moisture, regulates temperature, add nutrients to the soil, and prevents weeds.

• Apply a 2–4 inch layer of mulch around the tree.
• Keep mulch 1–2 inches away from the trunk (create a "donut" shape).
• Expand the mulch ring as the tree grows to cover the root zone.

Protect the Trunk:

• Avoid lawnmower and trimmer damage by maintaining a mulch ring.

• Even small injuries to bark can attract pests and cause disease.

Avoid digging or disturbing soil around the tree’s base, this area contains fragile feeder roots that absorb water and nutrients.

Damage to these roots can stress the tree and slow its growth.

Whenever possible:

• Keep planting, construction, and heavy foot traffic away from the tree’s root zone.

Proper pruning promotes strong structure and long-term health.

Pruning Basics:

• Start Early: Begin while the tree is young to encourage a solid, balanced form.

• Remove: Dead, damaged, diseased, or crossing branches.

• Avoid: "Topping" trees (cutting off the top weakens structure and reduces tree health).

• Best Timing: Late winter or early spring, before new growth.

In-depth tips on how to prune trees.

To find a certified arborist in your area, check out ISA's directory.

ISA's Tree Owner Information Guide

LEAF (Local Enhancement & Appreciation of Forests)

Ontario Tree Atlas

Find an Arborist