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TREES
Planting
Trimming
Removal
Arbor Day Foundation names Huntington Woods a Tree City USA for yet another year.
Access the clever "How to Kill a Tree" flyer to learn common mistakes people make when caring for their trees.
Tree Planting The City Commission has authorized the Department of Public Works to replace trees that are lost through accident, disease, or other causes. Every effort is made to replace each tree, however, current standards of spacing with regard to existing trees, driveways, fire hydrants, proximity to street intersections; underground utilities, etc. sometimes prohibit replacement.
The normal size of the tree that the city will be planting is 2-2 ½" in diameter. As a result of public interest, we give residents the opportunity to plant their own tree, providing they stay within certain species and size requirements. If you are interested in this, check out the Resident Tree Planting Policy. You will need to have this approved by DPW. A current list of approved selections is included with the policy. Please keep in mind you will be responsible for all costs including purchasing the tree, having it planted and any other additional costs associated with the tree.
The City encourages individuals to plant trees on private property, as well. Click here for a list of trees appropriate to plant in Huntington Woods. It is just as important for you to plant the right tree in the right place to insure many years of pleasure and benefit from every tree planted on public and private property. DTE has provided a Right Tree Right Place flyer to help homeowners choose the appropriate tree for locations near or under electrical wires. Download a New Tree Owner's Guide for detailed information about how much water your new tree needs, as well as other information about trimming, mulch, trouble shooting, selecting tree types, fertilizing and much more. For specific details about mulching, such how much you need and proximity to the trunk, read SOCWA's Trees for Tomorrow guide.
In providing proper growing conditions, we would like to recommend the following procedures:
- Watering: Proper watering is the most important phase of post-planting care. Water should be applied slowly over a period of several hours so that the tree roots are completely soaked. Water should be applied weekly during dry weather and once every two (2) weeks during a period of normal rainfall. Trees should enter the winter dormant period in a moist, but not saturated, condition.
- Tree Wrapping: The Department of Public Services does not normally wrap the trunks of newly planted trees. Recent studies by arborologists show little or no benefit from tree wrap. In some cases, it has shown to do more harm than good.
- Tree Prunning: The tree was pruned at planting time and any future pruning found to be necessary will be provided by the Department of Public Services. Please call us if the tree dies or appears to be in poor health so that corrective action can be taken to assist tree growth or schedule a replacement planting.
- Staking: The Department of Public Services does not normally stake the newly-planted trees, however, if your tree is growing crooked or leaning badly, notify the Department and we will take corrective steps.
- Fertilizing: We recommend against fertilizing until the tree has begun to grow (usually two or three years after planting). The tree receives a weak concentration of fertilizer material at planting time. Further fertilization should not be done until new growth at the end of the twigs reach 6" to 8". Fertilizing may be safely accomplished after that.
- Weed Controls: Herbicides presently being used are very effective for the purpose intended, however they also take their toll on newly planted trees. Follow the directions on the labels of all toxic chemicals and use extreme caution when spraying near shrubs and trees.
- "Lawn Mower Blight": One of the biggest killers of newly planted trees is mechanical damage from lawn mowers and string trimmers. When the bark is damaged around the trunk of the tree, the vascular system of the tree no longer conducts water and nutrients, and the tree dies. Please use care when cutting grass around your new tree. The area around this tree may be mulched with wood chips to help reduce this potential problem.
The Department of Public Works appreciates any care you provide for the tree. This care will certainly help in promoting a vigorous, healthy tree, which will add value and beauty to your home and property. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact the Department at 248.547.1888.
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Trimming
Winter Trim Program
Block Trimming Program.
The city hopes to continue its Master Tree Trimming Program by which all areas in the city should receive trimming every seven (7) years, budget constraints permitting.
Request Trimming Program: The Department will trim trees in the city right-of-way adjacent to resident's homes, at their request, provided there is a genuine need for trimming. The Department is attempting to reduce "request" trimmings due to the considerably higher expense.
Tree Removal The City makes every effort to remove dead or diseased trees as quickly as possible given current budget constraints. Only trees considered dangerous will be removed on an emergency basis.
If you have concerns regarding a city right-of-way tree, notify Public Works and the tree will be assessed and placed on a watch list, take down list or, if needed, an emergency removal list. Emergency removals take place as soon as arrangements can be made with the city’s contractor. If you wish to have your tree removed sooner, you can take advantage of the Residential Tree Removal Policy. If you have any questions, call DPW at 248-547-1888.
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