TreeStewards.org

As the temperatures rise and flowers begin to bloom, spring is a critical time for the trees in your yard. Whether you have towering oaks, leafy maples, or flowering cherries, caring for your trees during this season can help them thrive throughout the year. As tree stewards in Arlington and Alexandria, we understand how valuable trees are to our local landscapes, and we want to share some practical tips that homeowners can implement right now to support their trees during this beautiful, yet vital, time of year.

1. Watering Wisely

Spring can be unpredictable in terms of rainfall, and trees need consistent moisture to support new growth. Deep watering is essential, particularly for newly planted trees or trees that have been stressed by previous seasons. Aim to water deeply once or twice a week (depending on rainfall) to encourage roots to grow deep into the soil. A slow drip or soaker hose is ideal, as it allows the water to reach the roots without causing runoff.

2. Mulch for Moisture Retention

Applying a 2-4 inch layer of mulch around the base of your trees can help retain moisture in the soil, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds. Make sure to keep the mulch away from the tree trunk to avoid rot—mulch should form a “donut” shape around the tree, not a “volcano.” Wood chips, shredded bark, or leaves all work well, but avoid using synthetic mulches that may not allow proper water penetration.

3. Pruning Dead or Damaged Branches

The agenda for TSAA’s December 7. 2024, General Meeting and Class Graduation Party at the Park Fairfax Party Room in Alexandria was a full one.  There was Board business to conduct, such as electing the 2025 slate of officers, as well as announcing the graduates of the Fall training class and recognizing those who had completed their internships.  Graduates of the 2024 Training Class presented what they learned while doing their class projects, and those who completed their intern requirements were presented with hand pruners to use as they go forth as full TSAA members.  All of the new graduates and new members were warmly welcomed and applauded.

Join EcoAction Arlington for an evening with Jennifer Fioretti, the new Assistant County Manager for Climate Policy. Jennifer will discuss the role of the County’s Office of Climate Policy and opportunities for residents to support this important work. There will be a question and answer session after the presentation.

A collaborative tree planting event in Alexandria by Devon Reese

Today was an unusual day in Alexandria’s Mt. Jefferson Park. A four-part collaboration (between the City’s Urban Forestry department, Tree Stewards of Arlington & Alexandria, the Alexandria Beautification Commission and the Arlington Master Naturalists), inspired more than two dozen people to lend a hand in planting trees. By noon, 22 native saplings were in the ground – from dogwoods to white oaks to sweetgums and hackberries.

Tree Stewards of Arlington & Alexandria began a new membership training class in Fall 2024.

Tree Steward trainees are attending a hybrid training of weekly Zoom presentations (conducted live) and in-person field events with experienced Tree Stewards and tree care professionals.

Classes began with an in-person meeting outdoors on Saturday September 7, 2024 and finish October 29, with an in-person graduation gathering on December 7, 2024. In the table below, you can see the class agenda. Field events will occur after the appropriate Zoom class and cover four topics: tree identification, tree planting, tree pruning, and identification and removal of invasive plants.