January 2022
Happy New Year from Reforest Montgomery!
We've accomplished a lot over the years, and we are so grateful for your support!
a graphic showing a tree planting highlighting that 10,252 trees have been planted and 69 acres of land reforested in 2021.
Own Property in the Agricultural Reserve? Consider Reforesting…for Free!

Do you own property in Montgomery County’s Agricultural Reserve? If so, consider applying for Re-Leaf the Reserve, a partnership between Reforest Montgomery and Montgomery Countryside Alliance, focused on providing free large-scale plantings that protect streams, connect wildlife corridors, and expand habitat.

You can learn more about Re-Leaf the Reserve and how to apply for the program through the video below:
Our Next Application Period for Free Trees Opens on February 1

Applications for free shade trees for the fall 2022 planting season open on February 1. Applications are considered on a first come, first served basis, so be sure to apply as soon as possible on February 1st. For the first time, we will be giving priority to applications from property owners of Montgomery Planning’s Equity Focus Areas. Read about our new eligibility requirements here.

Please note, if you applied for a previous planting season, you will need to reapply for your application to be considered for the fall.
Cicada Damage and Winter Tree Care
images of damaged trees and leaves from cicadas
Did you notice that the leaves on the ends of some of your tree’s branches turned brown this summer? This dieback was probably caused by last spring’s wave of Brood X cicadas. Many of the dead branches likely broke off naturally, but winter is the ideal time to prune any remain in order to encourage new growth next spring.

If you are unsure whether your tree needs pruning, contact a Maryland Licensed Tree Expert. As always, if you notice signs of decline in any Reforest Montgomery free shade tree within the first year of planting, please contact us to discuss a replacement.

Winter is an important time to care for young trees regardless of cicada damage. Here’s a list of tips from the International Society of Arboriculture:

  • Add a thin layer of hardwood mulch in a ring or donut shape around the base of the tree to insulate the roots.
  • Continue to water trees if the temperature is over 40 degrees Fahrenheit and the ground is not frozen.
  • Clear snow from branches to make sure they aren’t weighed down or broken.
  •  Keep salt away from the ground under the tree’s canopy. Salt can damage roots and prevent them from absorbing water.
Questions, comments?

Contact the Program Administrator:
Kristin Taddei
301-495-4597

Follow us: @montgomeryplans 
Meet us: Visit the Planning Department in Silver Spring or invite us to your meeting.
Learn more: www.montgomeryplanning.org  

About Reforest Montgomery

Reforest Montgomery, supported by the Forest Conservation Fund, plants trees and forests throughout Montgomery County. This program offers residents a variety of options to get involved with reforestation programs in Montgomery County as well as providing property owners incentives to plant trees within the county such as discounts on native trees, free urban shade trees and more.