Plant a Tree in Your Yard
One of the most impactful things you can do for Springfield's urban forest is plant a tree on your own property. We can help you get started.
Why Plant in Your Yard?
Trees on private property make up a significant portion of Springfield's urban canopy. When residents plant trees in their yards, they add shade, reduce energy costs, improve air quality, and create habitat for birds and pollinators — all while increasing property values and making neighborhoods more beautiful.
Benefits of Yard Trees
Shade & Energy Savings
A well-placed shade tree can reduce summer cooling costs by up to 25% by blocking direct sunlight on your home.
Cleaner Air
Trees absorb carbon dioxide, filter particulate matter, and release oxygen — improving air quality for you and your neighbors.
Stormwater Management
Tree canopy and roots absorb rainfall, reducing runoff and the risk of flooding in your yard and on nearby streets.
Wildlife Habitat
Native trees provide food and shelter for birds, bees, butterflies, and other beneficial wildlife throughout the year.
Property Value
Studies show that mature trees can increase residential property values by 10–15% and improve neighborhood appeal.
Community Canopy
Every tree you plant contributes to Springfield's citywide canopy goal and helps cool the urban heat island effect.
How to Get Started
Choose the Right Tree
Select a species suited to your site — consider mature size, sun exposure, soil type, and distance from utilities and structures. Native species are best for local wildlife.
Call Before You Dig
Before planting, call Dig Safe at 811 to have underground utilities marked. This is required by law and keeps you safe.
Plant Correctly
Dig a wide, shallow hole — not too deep. The root flare should sit at or slightly above grade. Backfill with native soil, water thoroughly, and mulch.
Water & Mulch
New trees need regular watering for the first two to three years. Apply 2–4 inches of mulch in a ring around the tree, keeping it away from the trunk.
Greening the Gateway Cities Program
Springfield residents may be eligible to receive free trees through the Greening the Gateway Cities Program (GGCP) — a partnership between the City of Springfield Forestry Division and the MA Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR).
The program was created to increase tree coverage in urban areas across Massachusetts, with a focus on neighborhoods that have historically had low canopy cover. Trees are planted by trained crews at no cost to eligible residents.
Learn more about the GGCP"Every tree planted through GGCP helps Springfield reach its canopy goals and cool neighborhoods that need it most."
City of Springfield Forestry Division & MA DCR
Recommended Trees for Springfield
These native and well-adapted species perform well in Springfield's climate and soil conditions.
Red Maple
LargeAcer rubrum
Brilliant fall color, tolerates wet soils, great for yards with drainage issues.
Serviceberry
Small–MediumAmelanchier canadensis
White spring flowers, edible berries, excellent wildlife value. Good for smaller yards.
Eastern Redbud
Small–MediumCercis canadensis
Stunning pink spring blooms, heart-shaped leaves, tolerates partial shade.
White Oak
LargeQuercus alba
Long-lived, supports hundreds of wildlife species. Best for large yards with space to grow.
Sweetbay Magnolia
MediumMagnolia virginiana
Fragrant white flowers, semi-evergreen, tolerates wet conditions.
Tulip Tree
LargeLiriodendron tulipifera
Fast-growing, distinctive tulip-shaped flowers, excellent for large open yards.
Need Help Choosing a Tree?
ReGreen Springfield offers free technical assistance to help Springfield residents select and plant the right tree for their yard. Get in touch and we'll help you find the best fit for your site.