City of Markham helps residents plant trees for less with the LEAF Backyard Program

Tree-planting benefits both property owners and the wider community

Yorkregion.com
June 7, 2022
Scarlett Liu

Looking to green your property? Here comes an affordable tree-planting opportunity for Markham residents.

The City of Markham is collaborating with the Regional Municipality of York in offering 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.

“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.”

Learn more and apply to book an arborist at yourleaf.org or 416-413-9244.