Speak for the Trees

written by Josie Hammond and Liv Adao

Good evening, fellow tree huggers. It is a lovely Monday indeed, with the fall weather at its peak, and even the rain paying us a visit today. We are wishing you a blessed week ahead and a happy Halloween! Today, we want to talk about arguably our favorite topic: TREES. Trees are mysterious and beautiful beings, so we are going to be answering some common questions about them and handing out some advice! But first of course, let’s hear some wise words from Mary Oliver…

We at Speak for the Trees deeply resonate with Mary’s belief that trees save us, and daily. So, as you read this article, remember the importance and gentle beauty of trees. One of the biggest illusions in this world is that we are separate from nature. But in fact, we are one, the tree and me. Each of us has come into the world to be filled with light and shine! Now, onto some fun information about these awesome trees.

How do I plant a tree?

First, you want to pick a spot to plant the tree. Think about factors such as sunlight, access to water, and proximity to houses/roads/utility lines. Now that you have the location for your tree, it’s digging time! You’re going to want to dig your tree about three to four times as wide as the container the tree is in. It is important not to plant trees and shrubs too deeply. The root collar (where the first main roots branch out from the trunk) should be even with or slightly higher than the final grade of the surrounding soil. Now that the tree is centered and at a good level, you’re going to fill in the hole. Firmly pack the soil and create a berm, a raised dirt mound that helps control soil erosion and reduces runoff, in a 3-foot radius around the tree. Then add some natural mulch about 2 to 4 inches deep, but make sure to keep the mulch from touching the trunk. This mulch is important for protection, retaining moisture, and breaking down nutrients. Now go ahead and pat yourself on the back because you just planted a tree. Phew, that’s tough work. To take care of this tree, make sure to water it daily for the first two weeks. Then, water every three to seven days during the first year. Tip: Set a reminder on your phone, like “Water Wednesdays.” Did you know that it is actually prime time to plant a tree? Planting season is normally in the fall since trees are dormant and less likely to be damaged. Then it’s watering season in the Spring and Summer, because those trees need some hydration after working hard to survive their first winter in the ground!

What tree should I plant?

We at Speak for the Trees highly recommend planting a native tree since native trees support biodiversity and wildlife, overall helping to keep our ecosystem happy and healthy. It is important to do some research to pick which native tree is best for you and your yard. If you are a Nashvillian, we recommend the Tulip Popular (our State tree), Redbud, Southern Magnolia, Bald Cypress, and Black Gum. But those are just a few of our favorites; there are so many more!

Click this link to find more native trees: https://nashvilletreefoundation.org/tree-guide/

If you live somewhere else, use this source to find a native tree for you! https://nativeplantfinder.nwf.org/Plants

Whatever tree you choose, you want to make sure it will thrive — especially once fully grown — where you want to plant it. So there are a few things you want to consider, including:

The tree’s purpose. Are you planting it for aesthetics, privacy, shade/energy reduction, windbreak, or as a street tree? Your end goal will determine the suitability of different trees.
You also want to consider the planting site limitations. What is the maximum height and spread for a tree in the space? What are the sun exposure and soil conditions?

Where can I get a tree?

Here in Nashville, we have some pretty incredible resources to get trees; in fact, many of them are even free! Yes, that’s right, we said free. Who wouldn’t want a free tree? Root Nashville is a public-private campaign, led by Metro Nashville and the Cumberland River Compact, whose mission is to plant 500,000 trees across Davidson County by 2050. Their orders for trees are closed for the 2026-2027 delivery season; however, you can still add your name to our waitlist below to be notified if we have extra trees available at the end of the season. But it’s never too early to start thinking about next season. This is not the only way you can get a tree. Also consider the Nashville Tree Foundation, as they give out free trees at farmers’ markets all across Nashville during the fall. Consider following them on Instagram to stay updated on when and where those farmers’ markets are. Of course, as always, you can get trees by going to Home Depot or any local nurseries or garden centers.

Check out Root Nashville: https://rootnashville.org/

Check out Nashville Tree Foundation: https://nashvilletreefoundation.org/

Your homework for this week is to consider planting a tree! Even one tree makes a difference. If you have the resources and the space, it can be a truly rewarding experience. Of course, not all of us have a space or the authority to plant a tree. In that case, consider volunteering for tree plantings. Root Nashville, Nashville Tree Foundation, and many other local organizations offer volunteer opportunities to support and grow Nashville’s tree canopy. That goes for everyone, wherever you live. I guarantee you can help plant trees! Because, without them, we die!