Residential Tree Planting and Care

Residential Tree Program

Trees on private property provide many benefits to residents, including reducing energy bills through shading from sun and protection from cool winds, reducing air and noise pollution, improving property value, and being aesthetically pleasing. The planting and care of trees on residential properties is also an important part of maintaining and improving Brampton's urban forest.

See videos and tips on tree care and planting on your property below.

Prep Your Planting

Learn how to choose the right tree, the best time to plant, and where to get your tree. Good planning sets the stage for healthy growth.

What to Plant

When choosing a tree to plant, choose a native species! Native species are already adapted to the local soil and weather conditions.

Learn More

When to Plant

As a general rule, tree should be planted in the fall or early spring, because the weather conditions are milder which make it easier for plants to establish their roots.

Where to Plant

When choosing a location to plant, consider the eventual size and needs of your tree(s). Before plating contact Ontario One Call first to check out any underground utilities.

Contact Ontario One Call

Let's Plant

Follow step-by-step instructions for digging, staking, and watering. Proper planting gives your tree the best start.

Digging and Staking

Dig a hole 2–3 times the root ball’s width with a visible trunk flare. Stake only if needed for wind, and be sure to remove them within a year. Click here to learn more.

Tree Planting Guide

Mulching and Watering

New trees need consistent, deep watering to keep the root ball moist and support root growth. Mulching helps retain water, insulate roots, and protect against lawn damage.

Have You Planted a Tree?

The city lanuched the One Million Trees Program. Record your tree and get recognized!

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Keep it Growing

Discover how to care for your tree as it grows—pruning, pest control, and mulching to keep it strong and thriving.

Tips and Resources

Provided below are some tree care tips. Check out our tree brochure for more information.

Try to avoid lawn mower damage, root damage, salt, high nitrogen fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides when you are taking care of your new tree. Also, try to avoid putting ornamentation around your tree such as concrete rings; if the tree needs to be removed, this ornamentation may create issues or will be damaged.

Learn More about Tree Removal

An arborist is a professional tree & shrub expert. Arborists have the knowledge and equipment needed to care for your trees and shrubs. They can determine the type of maintenance necessary to improve the health, appearance, and safety of your trees. If necessary, a professional arborist will use a trained crew with the required safety equipment and liability insurance.

Here’s a checklist of minimum requirements to help hire a professional arborist:

Check for ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) certification.
Ask for proof of up-to-date insurance.
Ask for a list of references, and check them.
Verify that tree services are the primary focus of the company being hired.

Prep Your Planting

What to Plant

When to Plant

Where to Plant

Let's Plant

Digging and Staking

Mulching and Watering

Have You Planted a Tree?

Keep it Growing

Pruning

Addressing Damage

Pests and Disease

Tree Rings and Driveway Widening

Tips and Resources

Things to Avoid

Hiring an Arborist