Chestnut Hill Tree Tender volunteers (from left) Chris Sohnly, Andrew Glendinning and Leslie Cerf demonstrate tree planting steps.

by B.J. Hauswald, Chestnut Hill Tree Tender

Come join Chestnut Hill Tree Tenders as they once again plant trees throughout the community on Saturday, Nov.18, from 9 a.m. to noon. Tree Tenders, in cooperation with the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, has planted 125 trees throughout Chestnut Hill, replacing many lost and aged trees, and will plant 20 more this Saturday.

Beyond the beautification of our community, trees contribute to our quality of life by improving the air we breathe, providing shade, reducing summertime heat, and supporting wildlife. Trees improve property values, slow down drivers, and expand the beneficial acreage of city parks by extending the tree canopy.

Volunteers are welcome and encouraged to participate in the tree planting. It’s a great way to get outdoors and spend a crisp fall morning among neighbors and friends in what is becoming an annual tradition for some Chestnut Hill families. Small teams will each plant two to three bare root trees, which is easier than you might think. Email info@chestnuthill.org if you have questions, or simply come to the Chestnut Hill Friends Meeting at 20 E Mermaid Lane on Nov. 18 at 9 a.m., rain or shine. No experience is necessary, and gloves and tools are provided. Please bring a reusable water bottle.

If you would like to apply for your own free street tree, applications are being accepted through Nov. 25 for the Spring planting in April 2018. The Street Tree Request Form can be completed online at the PHS/Tree Tenders website, or printed from chestnuthill.org (see Forms) and emailed to Mary Ann Boyer at maboyer61@gmail.com.