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Community Corner

Spring is Here, Tend to Your Trees

As the spring equinox passes, make preparations for the spring growing season.

Sunday March 20 marked the Spring Equinox, the first day of spring. As our minds shift to warmer weather and we seek activities outdoors, it is a good time to tend to trees and gardens once plagued by the frigid frost of winter.

Spring flowers are beginning to blossom throughout the DC area and the Cherry Blossom Festival begins this coming weekend. With this new wave of plant life sprouting there are a few key things you can do to ensure healthy trees.

Local non-profit, Casey Trees, just released a Spring Almanac of helpful tips on how to keep your trees healthy this season.

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The organization is committed to “restoring, enhancing and protecting the tree canopy of the Nation’s Capital.”

There are many common misconceptions about urban trees. “One thing people may not know is that 'street trees' are maintained by the Urban Forestry Administration (UFA) under the Department of Transportation,” says Jared Powell, Director of Communications for Casey Trees.

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UFA relies on business owners and residents on private property to help care for these "street trees."

Casey Trees recently launched their “25 to Stay Alive” campaign to increase awareness about this misconception. Those that make the pledge on their website will receive a free rain gauge. In May the organization hopes to begin issuing weekly water recommendations.

One of the most common misconceptions is the correct amount of water trees need, “Trees should be given 25 gallons of water per week,” says Powell.

Here are a few tips to keep your trees healthy, from Casey Trees’ Spring Almanac:

  • Place slow release water bags around freshly planted trees, and give trees that have been in the ground less than three years 25 gallons of water per week.
  • Cut winter weeds and grass from around the tree trunk base.
  • Prevent damages to trees while using weed whackers or lawn mowers around the tree by investing in trunk guards.
  • Keep the soil moist and ward off summer weeds by using mulch on your trees.
  • Look out for dead and/or crossing branches. Remove dead branches, and carefully prune crossing or damaged branches.

Casey Trees offers a variety of opportunities for residents of all ages to get involved with their tree preservation efforts including Community Tree Planting Programs.

For those interested to find out more detailed instructions about tree preservation or to find out about future volunteer opportunities with Casey’s Trees, check out their website for more information.

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