NEWS RELEASE
CITY OF ORILLIA
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Orillia residents may notice a new addition to their neighbourhood. Help the City of Orillia get them established in their new home!
The City recently completed 56 tree plantings within city-owned boulevards, with another 10 plantings coming soon. If the boulevard near your home received a new street tree, you should have received a door hanger introducing the new tree and what you can do to help it get established in your neighbourhood.
“The City’s tree planting program aims to preserve and expand the beautiful tree canopy we have in Orillia. But planting new trees certainly goes beyond aesthetics – it helps fight climate change, reduces air pollution, benefits and improves neighbourhoods, human health and wildlife habitat,” said Mayor Steve Clarke.
“Everyone benefits and plays a role in ensuring our vibrant tree canopy continues to thrive. Our wonderful boulevard tree program is truly one of our community’s distinguishing features and part of what creates Orillia’s unique character.”
Trees are typically planted mid to late fall and residents are encouraged to contact the Environmental Services and Operations Department to request a boulevard planting.
The City will determine whether there is sufficient space, absence of utility and line of sight conflicts and appropriate conditions to support the tree’s growth. Please be aware that not all requests can be accommodated.
“The City is very excited to be able to introduce these new trees to Orillia. The support from residents and businesses welcoming their new trees has been wonderful,” said Renee Recoskie, Manager of Environmental Compliance. “Combined with the Environmental Advisory Committee’s free tree giveaway last month, the City is actively contributing to preserving, protecting and enhancing the tree canopy through various municipal Tree Projects.”
Use these guidelines to keep your street tree healthy until it is established:
- Water your tree weekly for the first year from late spring to early fall; after the first year, water the tree weekly only when it hasn't rained much
- Check soil periodically to determine moisture content. Soil should be moist not drenched or muddy
- Scratch the surface of the soil to ensure that water has penetrated the root ball and tree pit area. If the soil is dry, water again until moist throughout the root ball
- During periods of drought it is especially important to water your new street tree to prevent desiccation and wilting
- Do not let the planting dry out completely
- Protect your tree from mechanical damage from grass trimmers, lawn mowers, bicycles and cars
- Fertilize during the second year after the tree was planted. Use brand name tree fertilizers and follow the fertilizer manufacturer's recommended application rates
- Keep weed killers, solvents and cleaning agents away from your tree
For more information or to request a tree for 2020, contact the Environmental Services and Operations Department at [email protected] or 705-326-1502.
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