Trees produce the oxygen we breathe, filter out air pollution, provide habitat for wildlife, and help stabilize soil and prevent erosion. And in urban areas they add beauty to streets and property—which helps to improve mental and physical health—and provide an important connection to nature for urban kids.
Take some time this Earth Day to plant a tree, either in your own yard or with an organized tree planting. Giving kids a chance to get dirty without getting in trouble may be reason enough to get them planting!
DIY Tree Planting
To plant your own tree, check with a tree nursery or garden centre to choose the best tree and find an online tutorial to get you started.
You can get a free native Ontario tree to plant at home by taking part in the Tree for Me program through the Toronto Parks and Trees Foundation. It includes a workshop on proper tree planting and care and reference materials to take home—along with your tree! It’s part of the foundations efforts to create a healthier, greener city.
Community Tree Plantings in the GTA for Earth Day 2017
Be sure to RSVP to secure your spot (click the links below) and don’t forget waterproof shoes or boots and gardening gloves!
Saturday, April 22
Earl Bales’ Earth Day Tree Planting at Earl Bales Park in North York
One Million Trees Mississauga has 10 separate Earth Day tree-planting events at parks and natural areas. Celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday by planting 150 trees!
Town of Richmond Hill Tree Planting at Monticello Park
Sunday, April 23
Downsview Park’s annual Earth Day tree planting
Ajax Community Tree Planting in Miles Park
City of Brampton Community Tree Planting at Teramoto Park
10,000 Trees for the Rouge in Markham (Help reforest Rouge Park!)
Can’t plant this weekend? Find additional upcoming 2017 community plantings in the GTA on the City of Toronto’s Natural Environment & Community Programs calendar and a list of upcoming community plantings from Forests Ontario.
Check our Toronto events calendar, updated daily, for more Earth Day events and community events in the GTA.
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