Trees provide some amazing services! They produce the air we breathe, they provide food and other resources many species need to survive, they offer wind and noise breaks, they control erosion and storm water runoff, and they reduce excess carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

Express your appreciation for trees on Earth Day, Arbor Day (and every day) by planting a tree at your school or in your community. Here is a little more inspiration and some tips to get you started.

To get you into the tree planting mood, listen to “These Trees” by Billy B from his CD, Billy B Sings About Trees, co-produced with Project Learning Tree.

♫ Every day people say,

“What difference can I make,

what deeds can I do,

what actions can I take?”

Well now is the time

for you and me

to find a spot, dig a hole,

and plant a young tree. ♫

Choose Wisely

What kind of tree would you like to plant? One that flowers, one that provides fruit to eat, one that has leaves which turn red, orange, or yellow in the fall, one that stays green all year long, one that grows taller than all the rest, or one that prefers to stay small?

When choosing a tree to plant, pick one that you like but make sure it will thrive in your local environment. Native species will be easier to care for since they are already well adapted to your region, climate, and other conditions. Check out this, “Best Tree Finder Wizard” to help you identify your ideal tree.

Location, Location, Location!

Did you know all trees have different preferences for the amount of light, water, and other resources they need to survive? Choose your site carefully by researching what your chosen tree needs to grow. Then, select a location that provides the resources your tree needs.

Also, be sure to plant your tree away from buildings, power lines, and other structures. This will ensure that your tree has enough space to grow.

Timing is everything

Well, not exactly everything, but timing is very important! Typically, April and May are the best times to plant most trees in the US. September and October also work well for some trees. By planting trees in the spring or fall, you’ll ensure that your trees can establish themselves when the weather is cool and the soil is moist, avoiding stressful conditions when the weather is harsh in the summer and winter.

Taking care of your tree in its early years will also help your tree thrive. Be sure to water your tree and protect it so you and your community can enjoy the tree for years to come.

Mulch Madness

If you are planting a tree in your yard or in a public space, consider using mulch around the base of the tree. Mulch can help your tree retain water, protect it from extreme temperatures, and prevent other plants from outcompeting your tree for resources.

Follow the ‘Rules of 3’ for Mulching:

3 foot diameter of mulch

3 inches deep

3 inches out from base of the trunk

Water and Wait!

Your new tree will need water when it is first planted. Follow these rules of thumb for watering your tree while it expends a great deal of energy getting established. How much water your tree needs will also depend on the species. Be sure to research the recommended amount of water your chosen tree will need when it is first planted.

As the tree gets older, you should not need to continue watering. Once its roots are well established, the tree should be able to withstand a range of environmental conditions.

♫ Put that tree in the ground, water it and wait.

Water and wait, water and wait, water and wait, water and wait.

And as that tree grows give it care,

so it will thrive and grow when you’re not there.

Yes, as that tree grows tall and strong

you can watch it grow all your life long! ♫

Resources

Want to plant a tree as a classroom project? Check out Activity 31, Plant a Tree in PLT’s PreK-8 Environmental Education Activity Guide.

Login to access the activity’s Student Pages, with tree planting tips for students available in English and Spanish.

If you’d like to receive funding to plant a tree at your school or in your community, apply for a PLT GreenWorks! grant.