I want a tree in front of my house, where do I start?

Read more about planting options here, or reach out to us at info@pnpp.org and we can help you get started!

I’d like to plant a street tree through PNPP but don’t own the house/ property where I live, what should I do?

If the property owner lives onsite or nearby and you know them, we’ll ask you to check-with them to make sure they’re ok with a tree going in. (Even though the sidewalk/right-of-way is city-owned and managed, it’s good to make sure they’re on board!) If you don’t know your landlord or are struggling to get in touch with them, just reach out to us and we can help you secure permission and find a solution!

Can I volunteer to help plant trees?

We are often looking for extra help during our Spring and Fall tree planting seasons! Check www.pnpp.org/volunteer for more info, and sign up to receive our e-newsletter for more updates on how to get involved!

Are there any special skills I need to volunteer at a tree planting?

We welcome everyone–whether you’re a trained arborist or have never even thought about planting a tree before! (Kids under 13 bring your adult with you please!)

Can I request a tree in front of a business or other non-residential site?

Yes! Trees can be planted along any public city street: in front of homes, businesses, schools, churches, community spaces–as long as we determine there’s enough room at that site for a tree, and that there is someone committed to watering/stewarding it!

There is no lawn strip or existing opening in the sidewalk, can I still apply for a tree?

Absolutely! When you organize or participate in a Neighborhood Street Tree Planting, PNPP and the City will arrange for all of the necessary prep work for planting. This includes identifying the underground utilities, marking the best spot for a tree, cutting a new tree pit in the concrete or asphalt if necessary, digging out old existing dirt, and adding fresh soil.

Can I pick what kind of tree I get?

Our primary goal in selecting species is to plant trees that will survive tough urban street conditions, ensure a diversity of species across our urban forest, and contribute to the key human health and environmental benefits that trees provide. We are also limited by what species are available from commercial nurseries.

Taking all of these considerations into account, we select the appropriate type of tree for each site where we’re planting! We can sometimes meet an individual’s request for tree species, but this is not always possible.
(If you want to guarantee you get exactly the specific species you want, you can plant a tree through the City’s Individual Street Tree Planting Program – either a Full-Cost or Match-Cost tree.)

How do I take care of a newly planted tree?

Water. Mulch. Love. You can find more specific instructions in the tree care guides we created! (And remember: you want your mulch to be in the shape of a donut, not a volcano!)

Can I prune trees on my own?

To prune any city trees (those along sidewalks/right-of-ways and on public property) you need to be authorized by the City Forestry Division or become a certified Providence Community Tree Keeper, our joint program with the City to train and authorize residents to help with pruning and care of young city trees!!

A tree in the sidewalk in front of my house is dead or damaged, can you help?!

If you see a young, recently planted tree that is damaged or dead you can let PNPP know, however maintenance of all larger mature trees is handled by the Providence Parks Department’s Forestry Division–you can submit any tree issues through PVD-311 or visit Forestry’s website to learn more about how to get your tree taken care of!