Green Streets

Project locations can come about as a result of a bigger city project such as a new footpath or road, or from analysing data about heat and tree numbers in areas and of course from requests from the community.

If you would like to request for tree planting project in your area please complete a Tree Planting Project enquiry form.

For each project, a range of trees suitable to the area is identified, we call this a ‘Species Palette’. The goal of creating a species palette is to establish a diverse, resilient, and visually appealing urban forest.

A great species palette features collaboration between urban forestry professionals, landscape architects, and community members. This leads to a selection process that ensures a well-balanced and sustainable species palette.

Species palettes takes into consideration:

• Adaptability to Urban Conditions: Trees in urban environments face challenges such as pollution, compacted soils, limited space, and exposure to road salt. Species selected need to be resilient and able to survive in these conditions.
• Aesthetic Qualities: The species that enhance the visual appeal of the streetscape. Considerations include tree size, shape, colour, and seasonal changes.
• Ecological Benefits: Different tree species provide varying ecological benefits, such as air and water purification, carbon sequestration, and habitat for wildlife. A diverse palette can contribute to a healthier ecosystem.
• Climate Compatibility: Species need to be well-suited to the local climate conditions. This involves considering temperature extremes, precipitation levels, and potential exposure to extreme weather events.
• Low Maintenance: Trees must have minimal maintenance, such as pruning and disease control. This helps in ensuring the long-term health and sustainability of the urban forest.
• Variety and Diversity: A diverse palette reduces the risk of disease or pest outbreaks affecting a tree population. It also adds visual interest to the urban forest.
• Community Preferences: The preferences of the local community, including residents and businesses, are considered when selecting tree species. Public involvement in the decision-making process fosters a sense of ownership and pride in the urban forest.
• Infrastructure Compatibility: Consideration of the impact of tree roots on footpaths, roads, and underground utilities. Adequate soil volume and site preparation minimises the risk of conflicts with infrastructure.

The City will let surrounding residents know before the planting starts with letter drops and community events, to learn about tree species planned for their street and where the trees will go. 

Tree planting locations and species information can also be found in our user-friendly mapping program GREENspace. 

When the weather gets cooler and the rain starts to fall, the planting teams get to work.

In the summertime the City waters the trees and applies mulch and nutrients. The community are of course encouraged to help their new streetscape grow with extra water in the hot dry months if they can.