The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS) will commemorate Earth Day by planting trees throughout the Greater Philadelphia area from April 20-24, 2023, with assistance from more than 80 of its PHS Tree Tenders groups, neighborhood volunteers, and community organizations. Over 1,400 trees are expected to be planted.
PHS promotes healthier, greener communities by expanding and improving the tree canopy in neighborhoods throughout the Philadelphia region through this semi-annual initiative.
Volunteers interested in participating in tree planting can sign up at: https://phsonline.org/programs/tree-programs/get-involved.
Tree canopy, or the amount of land shaded by trees, has been proven in studies to improve health outcomes and communities, including a decline in heat-related illnesses and lower rates of violence. A “good” tree canopy coverage is thought to be 30% of the total land area. The city of Philadelphia only has 20% coverage overall, and in certain neighborhoods, it is as low as 2.5%. These startlingly low figures have prompted PHS to commit to increasing tree canopy, especially in areas with few trees and higher-than-average temperatures.
No prior expertise is necessary for volunteers to participate in the tree planting process, which usually takes 3 hours at the specified location. A PHS Tree Tenders group leader will be present at all planting sites to guide and encourage volunteers. Everyone is asked to bring hand sanitizer, gloves, closed-toed shoes, a water bottle, and if they have one, a shovel. Planting tools such as shovels, pickaxes, brooms, garbage bags, and other items will be supplied on-site. Specific details for each site are available via the website. Participants are also advised to dress appropriately as plantings will take place rain or shine.
Visit https://phsonline.org/tree to learn more about volunteering for this event.
