Residential Re-Leaf Program

 This program is being offered to all residential property owners within the City of St. John’s.

 Different tree species possess different characteristics or attributes. Perhaps the most obvious example of this is trees with needles and cones, known as coniferous trees, vs. those with broader leaves that fall off in autumn, known as deciduous trees. Coniferous trees are great for blocking wind or providing privacy. Deciduous trees can provide shade during the summer but allow light through during the winter months. Within these two broad categories there are many other distinctions to be aware of before choosing a tree. Selecting the best species for the site is the most important. Here is a list of available trees.  

 Vouchers can be redeemed at either of the following participating nurseries or garden centres. Each offer a wide variety of trees, shrubs and other garden supplies. Their staff are knowledgeable on the characteristics of the species available and are willing to provide advice in selecting a tree for your property.

• Holland Nurseries, 401 Torbay Road, St. John's, 709-726-1283
• Murray's Garden Centre, 1525 Portugal Cove Road, Portugal Cove-St. Philips, 709-895-2800
• Pat's Plants and Gardens, 787 Main Road, Bay Bulls, 709-334-2987
• Rise and Shine Nursery and Garden Centre, 829 Main Road, St. John's, 709-747-4463

Planting the right tree in the right place is the best step you can take to ensure success. It is best to finalize the planting location prior to purchasing your tree.

 

In accordance with the program requirements, planting trees adjacent to the street, either at the front or side of the property, is preferred however, backyard planting is permitted where these options do not exist.

 

Your tree will grow. Be aware of the mature size of the species you’ve chosen, both in terms of height and spread, and ensure the location provides sufficient room to accommodate mature growth.

 

Locate utilities both above and below grade. Applicants are responsible for ensuring it’s safe to dig in the chosen location. Utility location requests can be submitted online, free of charge at Click Before You Dig. Overhead utility lines must also be considered when choosing a planting location. More information regarding trees and power lines is available from Newfoundland Power.

 

Snow removal can be harmful to trees. Therefore, all trees must be set back a minimum of 1.5 m from the curb/sidewalk to avoid damage during snow removal during the winter.

 

Orientation of the property. Most trees can withstand full sun exposure but not all are tolerant of shade. Be sure to check the site conditions for the species you’ve chosen. Also, trees planted in the right location can help save you money. For example, coniferous trees can help block cold winter winds, lowering your home heating costs. Deciduous trees can provide shade during the summer months, helping to keep your home cool.

 It is recommended that the planting location is chosen, and the hole is pre-dug before picking up your tree to ensure that the planting site is ready once transported home. Please ensure that your planting hole is clearly identified when left unattended to avoid any safety concerns.

 If you are not able to plant your tree you could enlist the help of a friend or family member or hire someone to help.

 The Residential Re-Leaf program is free to all successful applicants. Each voucher covers up to $200 (including tax). You can choose to purchase a more expensive tree but any costs more than $200 would be your responsibility.

 There is a limit of one tree per property.

 In the nursery trade there’s generally two methods for describing the size of a tree. The size of a deciduous tree is determined by measuring the diameter near the base of the tree and the size of a coniferous tree is determined by height.

 

The vouchers being offered cover the value of a tree up to $200 including tax. The cost of a tree is generally determined by a combination of size and species. For $200, applicants will likely be able to purchase a tree that is approximately 35 to 40 mm in diameter or in the case of coniferous trees, 100 cm tall. While this may seem small, it is a great size for residential properties. When trees are planted, they initially focus their energy on growing roots and establishing themselves in their new home. Smaller trees generally have a higher percentage of existing roots at the time of planting and therefore require less effort to become established. Smaller trees are also easier to transport and plant.

 The City of St. John’s will not remove healthy trees to plant new or different trees. However, trees that are either dead, diseased, or hazardous may need to be removed and should be reported by contacting Access St. John's.

 Watering, mulching, and providing protection during winter greatly increases the likelihood of tree establishment. Visit Trees and Yard Care for more information.