Trees for Threes

New Year, New Trees 

In addition to renewing their Tree Campus USA designation for the 10th year, UL Lafayette, thanks to Grounds Management and The Office of Sustainability, will score again this Winter with a new “Trees for Threes” program. For every three-point shot made at men’s and women’s home basketball games in February, the University will plant one tree on campus.

Trees accumulated during the February basketball schedules will be planted on March 30th during The Big Event.

Why Trees?

Trees are natural air purifiers. They take in all the bad stuff－ air pollutants, nitrogen, ozone, ammonia and CO2－ while releasing quality oxygen. This makes them very efficient in fighting climate change. On the other hand, trees in your community can save you money! Neighborhoods with adequate shade producing trees are found to be an average 10° F cooler. This way, you save money by not having to run the A/C as often, reducing both your energy bill and the amount of CO2 emitted. Outside of the sustainable benefits, trees are beautiful ways to add fun and diversity to a backyard or public area. Fruit bearing trees bring a diverse array of native animals, plus food! Large oak trees give way to family fun through tire swings and hammocks, while flower bearing Magnolia trees give a backyard the feeling of having your own personal re-tree-t!

Want to plant your own? Here are a few tips and trick for picking, planting, and maintaining your perfect tree:

• Consider the size of your yard, as well as the space between your property and your neighbor. You don't want any property damage done to your or adjacent houses from root or canopy overgrowth.
• Make sure there is ample space for root spreading and canopy growth. Shade bearing trees can pose a problems to power lines.
• Think about what you would like the tree to do. Would you like it to provide shade, consumable resources, ambiance, or all of the above? Choose the type of tree accordingly and in consideration of what is native to the area.

Planting and Maintaining. When planting a tree, make sure the hole is only as deep as the root ball of the tree. In terms of width, the hole needs to be two to three times as wide as the root ball. To make sure your tree grows straight, insert a stake into the ground next to it. Secure the tree to it. Right after planting, water the tree and apply mulch to keep it moist. Depending on the type of tree, water deeply at least once a week for several months. After, the amount of watering can be reduced as you see fit. To keep the soil moist and roots at bay apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch. Mulch is also a fun way to add a bit of color to your plot.  You’ll need to give your tree a good amount of attention for the first two years of its life, making sure that it takes hold and remains healthy.

Are you thinking of hosting a community planting?  Be sure to reference LCG’s Community Planting Policy Guide for help with choosing the right tree for the right place!  The Community Planting Policy was created for use by the general public, neighborhoods, and local non-profits to carry out beautification projects in parks and public spaces.  To apply for a Community Planting Permit click here. 

And if you’re only looking to plant one tree in your own yard, the guide is still a great resource for choosing, planting, and maintaining your tree!

#RaginTrees

Want to see some of the three-pointers scored in action?  Come out to a game at the Cajundome this month! 

Get tickets here. 

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Post written by Jamillia McKinley