I just had a “Front Yard” tree planted on my property! How can I care for my tree?

Congratulations on your new tree, and thank you for helping us enhance Brookline’s urban forest!

To help your new tree thrive, there are several things you can do:

  • During the first two years, your tree will be expending a lot of energy trying to get its roots established in the soil. You can help make this easier by watering your tree regularly. From late spring until early December, water your tree slowly once or twice per week to keep its roots moist. A newly planted tree will need 15-20 gallons of water per weekAs a rule of thumb, your tree’s soil should be moist at 2” below the ground. Dig down 2” and touch your finger to the soil; if the soil is moist to the touch, then the tree does NOT need water.
  • You can also add a 3-inch layer of loose, coarse mulch at least 3 inches from the tree trunk of your tree. Please be mindful not to add too much mulch (4 inches or more), as this will exclude oxygen from the soil.
  • Keep pet urine and feces away from the tree’s roots.

Show All Answers

1. Can I have a “Front Yard” tree planted anywhere on my property?
2. What does the application process look like?
3. What kind of trees are available? Can I choose what species of tree is planted?
4. What is the cost to the homeowner?
5. How many “Front Yard” trees can I request?
6. What are the deciding factors for site suitability?
7. I just had a “Front Yard” tree planted on my property! How can I care for my tree?