Planting trees as part of the Miamisburg Love your City Community Volunteer day

For the last several years I have planted trees and have given them away for free to make Miamisburg a greener place. This year these Silver Maples and Ohio Buckeye trees will be given away as part of the Love Our City Community volunteer day June 7th.

You can reserve your tree if you live in Miamisburg by contacting me at 937-554-8116 or email me at scott.taylor@scotttaylorschoolboardcandidate.org

Learn More About Silver Maples

Learn about Ohio Buckeyes

Ohio buckeyes I am giving away

Some of the Silver Maples I am giving away

Why is planting trees important?

Trees give off oxygen that we need to breathe. Trees reduce the amount of storm water runoff, which reduces erosion and pollution in our waterways and may reduce the effects of flooding. Many species of wildlife depend on trees for habitat. Trees provide food, protection, and homes for many birds and mammals.

Learn More About the Benefits of Trees

Planting Instructions

To plant a tree,. dig a hole that's wider than the root ball, place the tree in the hole, and fill with soil, ensuring the root flare is at or slightly above ground level Gently firm the soil, water well, and add mulch around the base of the tree. 

Detailed Steps:

1. 1. Choose the right location and time:

   Select a spot that provides adequate sunlight, soil conditions, and space for the tree to grow to its mature size. Fall is often considered the best time to plant trees. 

2. 2. Dig a hole:

   The hole should be at least two to three times wider than the tree's root ball, but no deeper than the root ball. Loosen the soil around the sides of the hole to encourage root growth. 

3. 3. Prepare the tree:

   If the tree is in a container, gently loosen the roots by making several vertical cuts in the sides of the root ball and an x-shape cut in the bottom. If the tree is burlapped, remove the burlap and wire basket, if applicable. 

4. 4. Position the tree:

   Place the tree in the hole, ensuring the root flare (where the roots meet the trunk) is at or slightly above ground level. 

5. 5. Backfill and compact:

   Fill the hole with soil, gently firming the soil around the root ball to eliminate air pockets. 

6. 6. Water and mulch:

   Water the tree thoroughly after planting to settle the soil. Add mulch around the base of the tree, but keep it away from the trunk to prevent rot. 

7. 7. Staking (if needed):

   If the tree is top-heavy or in a windy location, consider using stakes to support it. 

This video demonstrates the process of planting a tree, step by step: