Frequently Asked Questions
Why did we start WE Tree Boston?
It was suggested that the West End needed more green spaces, and after surveying the entire West End, we found that adding trees would be the fastest way to turn our neighborhood green.
How can you help?
Our next few needs will be to 1. replace the round silver tags on each tree on Thoreau Path with new ones that have common and Latin names, 2. measure tree canopy and height, 3. remove lights on trees, 4. plant new trees, 5. mulch/fix fences/replace signs/add gator bags to all existing trees, 6. 'adopt' a tree to water each week June-October, 7. plan fundraisers for wreaths, lights, trees, tree supplies.
What does "adopting a tree" require?
Adopting a tree means agreeing to give it 15 gallons of water (3 Home Depot buckets), 1-3 times each week from June until October. We do have 'vacation' volunteers who will water your tree when you are away.
Do I have to live in the West End to volunteer?
No, we have had wonderful volunteers give us advice, donate money and supplies, help us measure and tag trees, help us plant trees and more.
How do I get 15 gallons of water? Isn't rainwater enough?
Most waterers use a beach wagon, 3 5-gallon buckets, a short hose and siphon to transport water from an outdoor source to their trees. Some fill their buckets from their homes. Unfortunately, rainwater is not enough for new trees in the West End, the soil is so compacted, rainwater often runs off before sinking into the tree's root balls.
What are the species of trees being planted?
We are currently trying to get arboretum status to help protect Thoreau Path, so we need to have at least 25 unique species. To date we have planted Dogwoods, Maples, Oaks, Gingkos, Magnolias, Cherry Trees, an Alaskan Cedar, a Japanese Maple and a Dawn Redwood.
How can I plant trees in my own neighborhood?
If you live in Boston, you can submit a ticket to 311 to request a tree be planted on a sidewalk near your home. If you are in an underserved neighborhood, you can contact Speak for the Trees to get a tree to plant. If you live outside of Boston, you should contact your town's arborist to see about getting trees planted.
How can you have a tree planted for a loved one?
In order to plant a tree in the West End we have to get permission from a local land owner, approval from Dig Safe that the placement will work and then raise the funds to purchase and plant the tree. The cost varies significantly from tree to tree based on species, size, number of other trees being delivered, time of year. If you are interested, please email wetreeboston@gmail.com to discuss specifics. Each new tree will need compost, mulch, fencing, signage, plastic cages, gator bag and lights.
