The Do-It-Yourself program started as a pilot project in York Region, where many front and side yards are larger than those in Toronto.. We’ve been offering the program to York Region residents since then and many have taken advantage of this flexible option. People love learning how to plant their own tree while still receiving the benefits of personalized advice from our arborists.
So how does it work? As a first step, you’ll visit the LEAF website to view our online video workshop. These short clips provide you with all the information you need to assess the soil and sunlight conditions of your yard in order to choose the best location for your tree. You’ll also see step-by-step demonstrations of proper planting techniques and learn how to care for your tree to ensure it gets off to the best possible start.
Next, you’ll complete a short quiz and questionnaire about your yard and tell us what characteristics you’re looking for in a tree. Our arborists will review your responses and provide you with personalized advice about what species would be best suited to your yard conditions and personal preferences. You can then select from those recommendations and place your tree and shrub order with us.
Finally, during our spring (April-June) or fall (September-November) planting season, we’ll deliver your order directly to your yard, along with mulch and a copy of our planting and care guide. Then it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get planting! As always, we’re happy to offer you ongoing support. We encourage you to contact us with any questions you have about your trees and shrubs at any time in the future.
So to sum things up, for $100 to $150 per tree, you’ll receive:
- online workshop and videos
- our arborist’s recommendations on species by email
- 5-8 foot tall native tree (2-4 foot evergreens)
- delivery to your yard
- mulch and our printed planting and care guide
- tree care advice by phone or email if needed
Shrubs, garden kits and pawpaws can also be added on to any Do-It-Yourself Planting Program order.
Sound like a good fit for you? Contact us today to learn more, or jump right in and get started with the online video workshop! And don’t forget, for those of you who prefer a little more help from LEAF, our Full Service Backyard Tree Planting Program is still available to all residents of Toronto and York Region which includes in-person arborist advice and full planting service.
Melissa Williams is the Residential Planting Programs Manager for LEAF.
LEAF’s Backyard Tree Planting Program is supported by the York Region, Ontario Power Generation, the City of Markham’s Trees for Tomorrow Program and Toronto Hydro.