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 A tree canopy is an “umbrella”, the upper layer that provides shade for flora, fauna and humans. It creates an ecosystem below the branches where other species can thrive. An Ideal canopy is one of mature trees with larger crowns that are in good condition. The greater the canopy, the greater the impact on the surrounding environment.

Since we are passionate about enhancing and adding to our tree canopy and we want to get it right we are relying on the excellent work already done by professionals in identifying those trees that will do well in our Northern Ohio climate. You can see this work contained, along with their suggested trees, in the Cleveland Tree Plan, Appendix A. The majority of trees we plant will be hardwoods that will grow to 50’ or more and be substantial contributors to the canopy in the future.

It is often considered that Fall, (late August, September even into early November), is the best time to plant trees in Northern Ohio. One of the BIG reasons this is such a good time is that it allows the newly planted tree to put its energy into growing roots and not foliage. But spring is an acceptable time to plant as well.

It’s generally shrinking. The emerald ash borer has hurt us! Millions of Ash trees have died or are dying from EAB. Ash trees were often planted to replace the American Elm years ago...well we all know what happened … the elms died off, and now the ash trees are too! Additionally, trees remain under siege from insects, dangerous environments, and poor or out-of-date city ordinances that don’t offer appropriate protection from development. Inadequate or insufficient tree care is an ongoing concern. Wouldn’t it be great if there was a consistent plan that a new tree is planted for each one that had to come down?

We can get pretty excited about great tree canopy projects. Finding the right project that fits well for Rooted in Trees takes time. We quite often have several projects ongoing at the same time. Once the canopy project is identified donor funds are raised by adding the project to our website asking donors for additional support. Trees are matched to the site and a planting date is set.

We arrange for the tree(s) to be transported from the nursery to the site, planted, staked and mulched. Depending on the size of the project this entire process can be completed in as little as one day or over the course of several days. When the project is completed successfully we will have planted a tree(s) that someday will be part of the Northeast Ohio Tree Canopy.

The earth smiles when you plant a tree.

Of course it depends on the type and size of the tree and where it is planted. But generally speaking Rooted in Trees will acquire trees in the 1 ¾” to 2 1/4 “ caliper size for planting. Often these trees are 8’ to 10’ tall, sometimes taller and have been at the tree nursery for several years. Once planted in good soil with good drainage and proper care you could expect growth in height of 6” to as much as 15” per year.