Street Trees

Trees planted on city property are chosen from a a list that is updated on a regular basis.   City arborists approve all plantings and visit each site to ensure that the species to be planted is appropriate.  Some considerations are…                      

Species should adapt to site conditions
example:  some tree species do not thrive in compacted urban soils

image from dot.ny.gov
 
Size at maturity
especially important under power lines
 
Form and structure
example:  vase shaped trees are appropriate on sidewalks;  trees with multiple trunks or spreading forms are usually not
 
Debris
example:  oaks that produce large acorns or trees that drop fruit are generally not used where people walk
 
Diversity in the urban forest
a variety of species, genera and families will limit pest and disease potential
 

Citizens who wish to plant a street tree should obtain a permit, available at http://www.richmondgov.com/PublicWorks/UrbanForestry.aspx