Trees for Capitol Hill (TFCH) is a tax-exempt organization founded in 1991 with the mission of restoring the tree canopy on Capitol Hill. At the time, when the District’s finances were in a shambles and there was no budget for planting street trees, TFCH stepped into the void. Many of the mature trees shading our streets got their start by TFCH volunteers. Now that the Urban Forestry Division (UFD) of the District Department of Transportation is fulfilling this need, nearly all the tree spaces in their purview have been planted.
UFD arborists have pointed out, however, that to get the canopy coverage necessary to protect the environment, we need more trees on private property.
TFCH will continue to plant in public space but is expanding its program to assist neighbors wanting trees (or shrubs) for their own yards. Participants are required to prepare a hole on their property and pay the cost of the tree (at TFCH’s discounted price) plus a prorated share of the shipping costs.
TFCH selects a specimen of the preferred species at the nursery, purchases the tree, arranges delivery and assists in planting. The trees are quite large, usually 1-2” caliper, and not inexpensive. Still, they are typically a more mature tree than what individuals could bring home and plant by themselves. The discount makes them more affordable; and shipping and installation costs are lower than if purchased directly from a nursery.
If you are interested in participating, email elizabeth_knits@yahoo.com with “Friends & Family Tree” in the subject line. There’s no specific deadline, but the shopping trip to Merrifield Garden Center will take place in late August or early September. Planting is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 21.
Not quite sure what you want? Check out the “plant finder” at www.missouribotanicalgarden.org. The climate in Missouri is very similar to the Washington metro area and the advice offered by this website has proven quite reliable for plant choices on Capitol Hill.
To learn more about TFCH, visit www.treesforcapitolhill.org.
Elizabeth Nelson is vice president/treasurer of TFCH.
