Frequently Asked Questions
New York City Trees
What characteristics make a tree best suited for urban living?
Urban trees should be pest resistant, tolerant of drought conditions, soil compaction, salt and air pollution. Urban trees should not be prone to losing limbs or have messy fruit. Ideally, an urban tree’s shape keeps its branches out of the way of people and vehicles.
Which local government groups have oversight of the city’s trees?
New York City Department of Parks & Recreation is the primary responsible agency
What is an urban forest?
All the trees and plants in a city
Tree Care
What can I do right now to help New York City’s trees?
Water, mulch and sign up to become a Citizen Pruner.
When is the best time of year to plant a tree?
Spring and Fall. The city’s planting seasons are from March 15th to May 30th and October 15th to December (or until the ground freezes).
I am not a certified tree pruner, am I allowed to prune street trees?
No, pruning without a license is illegal and can result in a fine.
In hot, dry weather, trees require 15-20 gallons of water a week. Who is responsible for watering?
For the first 2 years after the tree is planted, the planting contractor is responsible for watering. After that, it is up to tree-loving New Yorkers to water our city’s trees.
Why does rock salt used to melt snow and ice hurt trees and what are the alternatives?
Rock salt makes it difficult and sometimes impossible for the trees roots to absorb water from the soil and it ruins the structure of the soil, which results in compaction.
What is girdling and why is it bad for trees?
Girdling is when a tree is choked by an object left wrapped around it, like a bike chain. This can injure or kill the tree by preventing water from getting to the leaves and sap from getting down to the roots.
What is mulching?
Mulching is placing a layer of material over the surface of the soil to retain water and insulate. Materials commonly used for mulching are shredded bark, shredded leaves and compost. Mulch should never be more than 3” deep and should never touch the trunk of the tree.
How do I know when a tree needs water?
Marginal leaf scorch, when the edges of the leaves turn brown and crispy, is the biggest indicator that a tree is not getting enough water.
Getting Involved & Reporting Problems
Who do I call to report a dangerous tree?
If you think that a tree is dangerous, call 311 to report a hazardous tree.
Can TNY help me, my business or community group sponsor a tree or tree initiative?
Yes, please call TNY for more information.
Who do I contact to get a new tree planted on my block or a dead tree replaced?
You can call 311 or request a tree online
Can I adopt the trees in front of my building?
Sure, anyone can water, mulch and plant flowers in a city tree pit. If you want to prune your trees, you must become a Citizen Pruner.
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