Planting trees in Beverly Hills

Tree planting requires careful planning and execution to ensure tree health and sustainability, particularly given the region’s arid climate and urban environment.

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Choose the Right Tree: Select species suited to Beverly Hills’ climate and conditions. Avoid monoculture planting to reduce risks from pests and diseases that could wipe out your entire planting at one time.
2. Timing Matters: Ideally, plant trees in the spring or fall when temperatures are mild, and rainfall helps support root establishment. Planting can be done in the summer months, but plan on providing supplemental irrigation to your new tree.
3. Prepare the Planting Site: Dig a hole wider than the root ball but no deeper than the root ball height. Ensure the top of the root ball sits at or slightly above ground level.
4. Backfill with Native Soil: Refill the hole with native soil rather than amendments, which can hinder root expansion into surrounding soil. Break up clumps and remove rocks for better root penetration.
5. Add Mulch: Place a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the tree, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk. Mulch helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
6. Water Deeply and Regularly: Establish a watering schedule with slow, deep irrigation to encourage strong root growth. Water daily for the first week, then gradually reduce frequency over time.

By following these steps, Beverly Hills residents can contribute to increasing the urban canopy coverage while ensuring their trees thrive and beautify their landscape.