Enter to win your free tree now!
In celebration of the 10th anniversary of the askHRgreen.org program, we are pleased to be giving away 10 eastern redbud trees to 10 residents of Hampton Roads during the month of October. To enter the 10-for-10 tree giveaway, simply sign up for the askHRgreen.org e-newsletter using this entry form. The askHRgreen.org e-newsletter is published six times a year and highlights regional happenings, seasonal tips, and the latest news about askHRgreen.org community programs. Existing e-newsletter subscribers are welcome to enter the raffle by confirming their subscription on the same form.
Why is askHRgreen.org promoting tree planting for our anniversary? Simply put, planting a tree is one easy way to positively impact your community and the local environment. Trees add curb appeal to your home and provide shade and shelter for animals and humans alike. Trees add to the region’s tree canopy and naturally curb air pollution. Trees can stabilize your soil, prevent stormwater runoff and slow tidal flooding. Trees, especially Virginia native trees like eastern redbuds, foster habitat for the region’s pollinators, birds, and wildlife. There’s probably a hundred reasons to love a tree and now is the perfect time to plant one at your home.
Trees need time to establish strong roots before they can cope with hot weather or drought. Our mild fall and early winter weather here in Hampton Roads gives newly planted trees time to adjust to their new home and grow a strong network of roots before facing summer heat. And even with mild temperatures, it’s still important for newly planted trees to have a steady supply of water. New trees should be watered daily for the first few weeks — unless natural rainfall does the job for you. Continue watering the tree, by hand or by nature, a couple times a week for two to three months to give your new tree the best chance of survival. Once established, your tree will require little maintenance while supplying a long list of benefits to you and your community.
When selecting a tree for your yard, you should always consider the right tree for the right place. Determine the size of tree you can accommodate and how much sun/shade it will get. Once you know the conditions of your yard, pick a Virginia native likely to thrive here in Hampton Roads. Be sure to check the Native Plants of Southeast Virginia guidebook for trees best suited for the climate in Hampton Roads. Eastern redbuds are a popular pick due to their relatively compact size, wildlife benefits, and exquisite seasonal colors.
Enter to win your free tree now!
*Winners will pick up their trees from Countryside Gardens in Hampton or White’s Nursery & Garden Center in Chesapeake.