THE LEAFLET

We just had our first tree care event this past weekend at Mt. Olivet Cemetary — and we are thrilled to be back! Whether you want to get your hands dirty or not, there are so many ways for you to help trees – some can be done right now!

1. Water
   Young trees have a tough life in the city and they need all the help they can get. While you water trees, plants, and shrubs on your property consider filling up the Gator Bags or soaking your street trees. They’ll thank you! Young trees need 25 gallons of water a week to survive. Follow our Weekly Watering Alerts throughout the summer to keep tabs on whether or not to take out the hose.
2. Mulch
   Mulch helps keeps the soil surrounding a tree nice and moist (and makes your life easier by keeping weeds in check!) It’s key to apply mulch in a doughnut shape around the tree trunk – stacking the mulch around the trunk can deprive a tree of air, water, and nutrients it needs to develop and grow. Stick to our 3-3-3 rule: 3 inches of mulch in a 3-foot ring with a 3-inch space around the tree trunk.
3. See Something, Say Something
   Does a street tree on your block have a branch that looks funky? Maybe a tree box outside your house has sat sad and vacant for too long. While the city manages trees in the right of way (the area between the sidewalk and the street), they can’t help issues they don’t know about. Submit any and all tree-related requests to the city via 311.
4. Knowledge is Power
   The more you know about the environment you’re in, the more invested you are in it. That goes for your trees! Learning to identify trees is a fun and eye-opening experience, and one you can take with you wherever you go. We have lots of quick guides on how to identify trees by their showy leaves, pretty buds, and notable bark. Want to take your tree knowledge to the next level? Check out our new Species Guide and go ID some local trees in our neighborhood! 
5. Check for Cicada Damage
   Don’t forget to check for cicada damage this year! Inspect your trees for any damage or concerning areas. Especially young trees! The cicadas are mostly harmless, but you never know. Contact a Certified Arborist to prune if anything looks off. We offer pruning services as part of our Consultation offerings. 
6. Show Your Love
   Wear your heart on your sleeve! Your heart that is full of love for D.C.’s trees, that is. We have hats to protect you from the sun, a subtle and creative long sleeve, and the perennial fave – our take on the D.C. flag. Better yet? Every purchase in our online store goes directly to our mission to restore, enhance, and protect the tree canopy of our nation’s capital.
7. Share the Love
   You know you love trees, we know you love trees, but do you share your love of trees with the world? We’re active on most social media platforms, sharing knowledge, alerts, and the occasional tree nerd meme. Find us on Facebook, Twitter,  Instagram, and TikTok your favorite and/or least favorite urban tree-related findings.
8. Spread the Love
   Spread trees throughout the city – plant some! We have a plethora of ways for trees to get in the ground, whether on public or private property. Nominate a community or a school that could use some tree cover, or add some beautiful blooms, feisty foliage, or some grand greenery to your yard with our residential tree planting programs. We can professionally plant a tree in your yard for little or no cost to you!
9. Set it and forget it
   There’s no easier way to support your city’s trees — you simply designate a monthly contribution to be charged to your credit card account, then sit back, relax, and grow trees! Evergreen Members truly exemplify what it means to be a dedicated member of the local community and an irreplaceable ambassador for our city’s trees. Make your lasting investment today and start supporting trees year-round.
10. Register Now!
    Come join us at the next Care Event at Dakota Playground! Saturday, July 24th – Community Tree Care: Dakota Playground