Keep in mind the planting site when choosing a tree. Some trees do well in shady areas, or wet spots. Don't plant a large tree under a power line, or the power company will have to trim it eventually. Also, Arlington has heavy, compacted soil and summers here can be very hot and/or dry. Buy a tree that won't mind that kind of weather.
Some widely available trees have problems and DPCA does not encourage their planting. Such trees do not qualify for reimbursement.
Trees not eligible for a grant include:
Leyland Cypress
Arborvitae
Norway Maple
Bradford Pear
Some dwarf, weeping and/or contorted Asian varieties
2. Buy and plant your tree.
Do you have questions about how to plant your tree? How often to water it or prune it or fertilize it?
Help is just a phone call away! The Master Gardeners of Northern Virginia offer free horticultural advice to Arlington residents. Call 703-228-6414, Mon-Fri., 9 am to noon.
Trees are great! Trees cool us down in the summer, purify the air, filter pollutants from the soil, and beautify our community.
Since Douglas Park benefits from every tree planted by our residents, the Civic Association will reimburse homeowners half the cost, up to $50, of a tree purchased and planted on private property in the neighborhood.
