Arlington residents can obtain free trees this spring through neighborhood civic association contacts. These are small tree whips in 5 gallon containers and will be available in late April or early May. Species given away this year - 2009 - are the Bur Oak and American Hazel.
The Bur Oak (Quercus macrocarpa) has a lovely rounded shape that can reach a height of 90 feet, is tolerant of a variety of moisture and soil conditions, and prefers full sun. In addition to its notable strength, it is a splendid tree for urban landscapers because it provides acorns for squirrels, has dense shade, and is resistant to air pollution and heat stress. Its generally slow growth is compensated by its longevity that may exceed 200 years! Your planting location should be at least 10 feet from a building, overhead wires or smaller trees and 20 feet from large trees.
View pictures of the Bur Oak and learn more about this tree!
The American Hazel (Corylus Americana) provides those lovely easy-to-crack small sweet nuts loved by cooks or you can share them with the squirrels and birds! This is a multi-stemmed shrub-like landscape plant (18' high, spreading to 15') which is tolerant of a wide variety of soil conditions and thrives under full sun or in light shade. its blooms in early spring are yellowish-brown if male and red if female - but don't worry about pollination since over 600 of these are being given away in our small county. This is an ideal selection for starting your own Backyard Wildlife Habitat.
View pictures of the American Hazel and learn more about this tree!
Don't know your Civic Association contact?
Check the Arlington County website listing of contacts!
Parks and Natural Resources is hoping for the participation of all of Arlington County‘s civic associations in this year’s tree giveaway. Each association should assign a neighborhood coordinator to promote the tree giveaway program and record residents’ requests.
This program has been increasingly successful with PRCR having given out over 3000 trees over the past three years. The trees, to be planted on private residential properties, help enhance and sustain Arlington’s urban forest.
Please feel free to contact Patrick Wegeng, Environmental Landscape Supervisor by email pwegeng (at)arlingtonva.us or phone at 703-228-6521, if there are any questions.
