City of Dearborn Offers Affordable Trees

This is a sweet deal, and it starts on Valentine’s Day.

Beginning Feb. 14, Dearborn residents can begin ordering affordable trees that can be planted on the easement in front of their homes.The offer is for a limited time only, as the supply is also limited.

The city of Dearborn encourages the planting of trees as a way to keep neighborhoods attractive, reduce energy consumption and support a healthier environment. Dearborn has held the Tree City USA designation for 27 years, supported by the efforts of residents and city officials.

The annual spring tree planting program is open to Dearborn residents only.

Each tree costs $175 plus tax, and the supply of trees for the program is limited. Trees range in size from 8-10 feet in height and are sold on a first come, first served basis through Dearborn’s Department of Public Works.

Residents can choose from an assortment of trees. Each species offered meets American Association of Nurserymen standards and is zone hardy.

To place an order or to request a selection guide, residents can call 943-2317 or visit www.cityofdearborn.org.

Orders will not be taken via voicemail. If there is no answer at the DPW phone line, leave a message with your name and phone number and someone will call you back to take your order.

This year’s selections are: “Ivory Silk” Japanese Tree Lilac, “Green Vase” Zelkova, American Hornbeam, “Brandywine” Red Maple, Corzam or Corinthian Linden, Golden Rain, American Yellowwood, Ginkgo Tree/Maidenhair Tree, “Lustre” Allegheny Serviceberry and Sugar Maple “Legacy”.

Homeowners can suggest an easement planting location and city personnel will have final approval.

The area between resident’s sidewalk and curb must be a minimum of 4 feet wide to accommodate a tree. Public Works officials will decide if there is adequate space in the easement of a property owner’s home for a tree. Multiple trees may be ordered if correct spacing is available.

Trees will be planted by a contractor and have a one-year warranty. Planting usually takes place in late April and should be complete by the end of June. The contractor is responsible for planting, mulching, staking, pruning, watering and clean up at the time of planting.

At the end of the first year, the contractor will provide a final inspection and remove tree stakes and bracing.

Residents are responsible for maintaining the health of the tree through regular watering.

Residents will be billed by the City of Dearborn after tree planting is complete, usually in July.

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