Jen Volk, Withrow Park’s Adopt-a-Tree Coordinator, secured maps of the park trees from forestry staff at the city, which we used to tag each tree with its own number and species.
Each tree adopter selected their own tree from the map and many families adopted a cluster of closely placed trees.
Cheryl Post, the Parks Program Officer, arranged for the supply of 5 cubic yards of mulch and the necessary tools, gloves and buckets to distribute it to the park’s saplings.
We filled up our buckets and wheel barrows and headed over to our trees to give them the attention they need and deserve.
Each tree had 6 to 8 small buckets of mulch placed around the trunk in a doughnut shape. Everyone paid careful attention to the proper technique that Jessica showed us, and we created a small bowl - about 8" in diameter - so that water can collect near the base and soak into the roots rather than running off to the storm drains or evaporating under the hot sun. Jessica also explained how the mulch will help to insulate the fledgling roots during their winter hibernation.
By 11:30, as the community mulching came to an end, it was time for the tree tour to begin. We started with a discussion about the importance of watering to increase the rate of tree survival. Luckily representatives from the Friends of Withrow Park were able to coordinate community access to the park’s water supply with their park supervisor, Collette Martin. And some people said they could also bring water from home using large jugs and wagons.
As we moved through the park, Jessica spoke about various tree species, including this giant willow tree. Surprisingly, Jessica said it may not even be 100 years old – their fast growth can be deceiving.
We also spoke about the importance of a succession planting plan for parks. The large elm trees would ideally have some smaller trees growing up alongside them to fill in as they begin to decline. It is this sort of sustainability that the Friends of Withrow Park have been working towards, and it was interesting to chat about future plans.
We ended beside a visible reminder of the importance of the Adopt-A-Park-Tree program - an adopted tree that was cared for and watered throughout the past year. While it stood, a testament to our hard work and dedication, several nearby trees were in rough shape. Hopefully this round of adoptions will see the remaining park trees reach their full potential too!
The Adopt-A-Park-Tree event was launched in partnership with the City of Toronto’s office of Natural Environment and Community Programs, Friends of Withrow Park, Toronto Park People and LEAF. Find out more information about other Adopt-A-Tree programs and think about starting one in your park!
Anna Hill is the Coordinator of Community Outreach and Neighbourhood Parks for Toronto Park People. They believe that when residents get involved, parks get better. You should follow them at @Park_People on Twitter and @TorontoParkPeople on Facebook.