Markham helps residents plant trees for less with leaf backyard tree planting program

Markham.ca
May 20, 2022

Markham residents who are looking to green their property can benefit from a City of Markham partnership with the Regional Municipality of York that offers discounted trees through LEAF (Local Enhancement and Appreciation of Forests). Program participants will receive professional arborist advice to help them choose the right trees for their space, plus tree care instructions to help newly planted trees flourish.

Endorsed by Markham's Trees for Tomorrow initiative, the LEAF Backyard Tree Planting Program offers native trees to residential, multi-unit and commercial property owners for a subsidized price. There are two options with LEAF, the Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Tree Planting or Full Service Planting. The DIY Program offers customers a virtual consultation with an arborist, contactless delivery and the opportunity for customers to plant their tree themselves. The Full Service Program offers an in-person arborist consultation and a full planting service from the LEAF tree planting team.

“I am very pleased that the City of Markham has once again partnered with York Region to offer the LEAF Backyard Tree Planting program for our residents,” says Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti. “This is a great opportunity for residents to help green Markham and increase our tree canopy while beautifying their own properties. I encourage residents to participate in this exciting program."

Through the partnership, Markham property owners pay only $50 (+HST) for each evergreen tree and $100 (+HST) for each deciduous tree chosen from a select species list. The fee also includes planting and/or delivery, mulch and a tree care guide. Learn more and apply to book an arborist at yourleaf.org or 416.413.9244.

“This is such an amazing and novel program. It’s so exciting to see the City of Markham take the initiative to care for the environment and to see the passion of the LEAF team. From the arborist consultation to species recommendations and follow ups, you can really see LEAF’s eagerness to make this something special. I’m excited to see the literal fruits of everyone’s labour as my newly planted species bloom,” says Larry Isaacs, a City of Markham resident.

Trees provide so many benefits to property owners and the wider community, from stormwater management to summer cooling. LEAF plants native species, which are well-suited to our climatic conditions, typically require less maintenance than non-native species and provide essential habitat for wildlife.

“We make native tree planting easy, fun and affordable!” says Erin MacDonald, Acting Executive Director at LEAF. “Our focus is on helping trees not only survive, but thrive. That’s why we help property owners choose the right native trees for their spaces. We’re excited to help Markham residents increase tree canopy and biodiversity right from their yards.”