See the forest from the tree: a look inside the City of Ottawa’s tree planting season

First, I would like to thank the City of Ottawa for allowing me, a humble tree, the opportunity to talk with you today. Then again, who else would be better suited to tell you about the City’s forestry team and tree planting process first hand? Or, first branch? Ottawa’s trees and forests are an integral part of the daily quality of life for those who live, work, and play in our beautiful city. My friends at the City are committed to grow the tree canopy through tree planting programs that work to increase the number of trees on both municipal and private property. I can attest to the fact that the process of acquiring, caring for, and planting new trees in communities across the City is one that involves the continuous hard work of City staff and contractors. Now that I’m starting to spread my roots in my forever home, I appreciate their work even more. Before trees like me can even be delivered to the nursery, the City has to determine the right species for different planting locations. Some species are better suited to parks, while others are suitable for planting along streets and other more urbanized areas. Then, the fun begins! The Tree Nursery I spent the first part of my life growing healthy and strong at a reputable nursery, where I was given some special clothes so that my roots wouldn’t be damaged in transit. They were wrapped in burlap and then I was given a special wire cage to wear. The burlap and cages are removed before we’re planted, though. I was then sent to the City’s tree nursery facility when the time was right for me to find my forever home. You can think of this like a hotel – I was there for a short stay, but the staff made sure that I had everything that I needed. While at the City’s nursery, all the trees are sorted and prepped for planting. A few days before planting, we’re dropped off at our new homes. I hung out there until it was my turn, but don’t worry! By this point, my friends and I were about two to three metres high and quite heavy and strong, so it would be very difficult for someone to take us. The Planting Process From start to finish, it takes about seven minutes for a tree to be planted. The contractors and Forestry Inspectors work in a bit of an assembly line or caravan, with each truck responsible for a different part of the process:

• Holes are dug in preparation for the trees
• The wire and burlap are removed and tree is placed in the hole, which is filled with the soil that was removed when it was dug
• Mulch is added around the planted tree, it is watered, and sometimes stakes are installed

This work is done by diligent contractors who are overseen by Forestry Inspectors like Ashley, who is one of the on-site supervisors who ensures that the planting is being done with care and consideration. During tree planting season, they wake up bright and early so that they can be ready to start work at 7 am. While planting is happening, there is one forestry inspector at the front of the caravan and one at the back. Not only do they help to make sure that we’re planted properly so that we grow big and strong, but they are also there to answer any questions that you, the resident, may have. The Forestry planting operations team is small but mighty. “We’re a small group doing a lot,” says Ashley. “One group planting the whole city.” There are two planting seasons throughout the year – spring and fall. This fall planting season, the Forestry group will be out until the ground freezes in early- to mid-November. The work, doesn’t end there, though! Once planting is done, Forestry staff then go out to inventory the locations of the trees, which not only lets the City check in on us, but according to Ashley, “also helps us to monitor tree health.” The work that they do is invaluable, and from my roots to my leaves, I want to say a huge thank you to all Forestry staff as well as the contracted team. I’ll do my very best to grow healthy and strong and to help keep Ottawa cool, clean and green for the rest of my life. For more information on City programs and services, visit ottawa.ca, call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401) or 613-580-2400 to contact the City using Canada Video Relay Service. You can also connect with us through Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram.