DECA Trees

July 7, 2013

We need you to adopt a tree!

This time of year I’m so thankful for the glorious shade provided by the trees along my street. The DECA Tree group is looking for volunteers to ensure that our community trees can grow and thrive – thanks to those of you who have already taken this on, but we need more help. Keep reading to learn more…

Adopt-a-Tree

Thriving trees clean and cool our air, and provide wonderful shade.

Every year, the City of Toronto plants thousands of young trees in our front yards, on our boulevards and in our parks. Sadly, most go without water and suffer from stunted growth. Too many more die from neglect. For so many good reasons, we need these trees to thrive!

Would you like to adopt a tree in the neighbourhood? It can be a rewarding project for individuals, families and streets.

The DECA Tree group is busy compiling an inventory of City trees that need water this summer. Trees can lose up to 95% of their roots when transplanted so they need to be watered regularly during this critical phase. If you are interested in adopting one of these trees, please contact DECA Tree by clicking here. We will give you the basics of tree care and find a tree near you.

Thank you!

Five valiant golden honey locust trees, just north of Woodbine subway station along Strathmore Avenue, have been adopted by East Toronto Climate Action Group (ETCAG) with support from Valu-mart. Perhaps you have seen volunteer extraordinaire Susan Crofts with her buckets, giving these beauties the many gallons of water they need each week? These trees were planted in fall 2010 as a joint effort between the TTC and local tree advocate Mary-Margaret McMahon (who has since been elected to City Council!). Thank you Susan and ETCAG!

trees

May 29, 2013

Tree Care 101 – Saturday June 1

Who is speaking for the trees in your neighbourhood?

YOU ARE!

Come learn everything you need to know to be a bona fide tree-hugger, this Saturday, June 1, 2013 from 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. @ 79 Hiawatha Road, near Coxwell and Gerrard.

July 3, 2012

DECA is re-establishing its urban forestry group – DECA Trees. A few tree-minded folks have come together to put some energy into making our trees healthy and vibrant. The first of the tree posts is below. If you would like to get involved or know more about this group, contact Anne at ratherbeinagarden@gmail.com

Did you know that trees grow at night?

And to make that happen you have to water your local trees, especially the young ones (and maybe the poor dying tree down the block too).

Young Trees

Trees didn’t grow up wanting to be jammed into a barren hard packed narrow boulevard in the city with dogs peeing on them- but here they are. You can’t correct the where- but you can help them survive and grow. Young trees need to be watered 2-3 times a week.

The finger test: Stick your newly manicured nail a few inches into the ground near the tree. If it doesn’t feel damp – it needs water. You can also do a visual check and to see if the leaves are wilting. If they are, the tree is in distress and should be watered a.s.a.p.

How Much?

For a small tree- about 8-10 litres (about 2 gallons ) 2-3 times a week. How hard is that? It’s a great kid summer project and it’s very rewarding. The first year the tree is madly trying to establish a root system. Next year stand back and watch that tree grow ! (keep watering though).

Because of the narrow hard packed boulevard into which so many trees are planted the water will likely roll into the street, and not soak into the ground . You’ll have to use a drip method. A hose left on a drip will give you enough water in about 20-60 minutes to adequately water the tree. Ideally water at the drip line. (The drip line is the area under the outer edge of the tree branches. There are tiny roots here that take up water for the tree as it drips off the leaves.) Trunks don’t need water and wetting them can cause fungus growth and rot.

There – you’re done! 2-3 times a week. Encourage your neighbour to do the same. And water other street trees that are being neglected. Here’s the bonus…carrying watering cans is great way to tone the triceps!