By Jared Liu
From my earlier article, you know that there are critical benefits for incorporating trees at playspaces. Now let’s talk about technical details of planting and caring for trees. Unfortunately, it may not be as easy as it sounds. You need to know about managing inventory and quality control, tree selection, site preparation and planting, and proper tree care including watering, mulching, pruning, and fertilizing. Otherwise, you could quickly end up with a row of dead trees.
The best option is to contact your community tree organization. Ask them to help in early in the playspace planning stages. You can find the one nearest to you by visiting the Alliance for Community Trees at www.actrees.org/aboutus.
Trees are an investment: take good care of them and you’ll reap the benefits. Here are some critical rules for how you can invest in the safety and health of our communities:
Finally, tell a friend. Recruit two neighbors to plant two trees, and you will have made a big difference! Talk to them about the benefits trees provide. For more information, visit the Alliance for Community Trees at www.actrees.org.
The Alliance for Community Trees (ACT) is a national alliance of organizations dedicated to improving the health and livability of cities through tree planting and care. With 150 affiliates in 40 states and Canada, ACT engages volunteers to improve the environment in urban areas, where 83 percent of people live. As director of programs, Jared Liu coordinates grants, policy, and communications.