TreeFolks, in partnership with the MoPac Improvement Project, will give away 500 1-gallon trees to Austin area residents on Saturday, March 7, 2015 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm at the TX Department of Motor Vehicles parking lot located at 4000 Jackson Avenue in Austin, Texas.
Each household may take home their choice of 2 trees: Mexican buckeye, bald cypress, cedar elm, deciduous holly (aka possumhaw holly), Mexican white oak, Mexican plum, and Texas redbud.
Volunteers are needed to help unload and distribute the trees. If you would like to volunteer to help out, click here to sign up.
Planting trees along the street and around the home is one of the most effective ways to save energy in summer (and winter), and adds beauty and value to your home. The best time to plant trees in Central Texas is right now, so come on out and get a free tree!
Helpful Watering Tips:
- Newly planted trees need 15 to 20 gallons of water every week for at least two years. Each week that your yard does not get at least an inch of rain, you need to provide water for your trees up until they are established and producing good leaf growth in spring, or for two years, whichever is later.
- Create a 3 – 4 inch mulch ring – it preserves soil moisture and feeds your tree!
- Drill 3 holes in the bottom of a 5 gallon bucket, place it right next to the trunk and fill with water. After the water drains move the bucket to a different side of the tree, repeating twice to apply 15 gallons.
- Leave a hose on a low trickle near the trunk for about 15 minutes to apply 15-20 gallons. This allows water to deeply soak the soil near the root ball.
- Place a bucket in the sink or shower to catch the excess water and share it with your trees!
What Are the Stage 2 Watering Restrictions for Austin?
Basically, automatic irrigation systems are allowed to run on your designated day before 10 a.m., but hand-watering is allowed anytime. Visit Austin Water’s Stage 2 Restrictions for specific guidelines.
