Planting: Putting the Right Tree in the Right Place

School site tree planting

Before you plant

Aside from selecting a tree that fits the site and your goals, you need to examine the place in which it will be planted.

Not all tree species will thrive everywhere or provide the long-term benefits you anticipate.

After you’ve read the guidance below, check out more information in the Tree Selection section.

Check out this guide to site assessment and species selection prepared by the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agriculture Science. It’s Florida-specific and a bit dated but it covers every step you’ll need to take.

Guide to sites and species

A manual from the Center for Watershed Protection covers the same ground but also explores special considerations for urban tree planting.

Planting and maintaining in urban settings

What to look for

Tree survival depends on many different factors – some related to ecologic conditions, others to the influence of human activity.

Vibrant Cities Lab has a new look, new resources and new ways to get involved in greening your city. We’re introducing several new digital resources including a Cool Corridors Guide, Urban Forestry Roadmap and Forest Health information that will help urban foresters and related professionals build thriving programs for their communities. 

On December 31, 2025, old.vibrantcitieslab.com (note the new URL) will close. Make sure you download any resources or action guides you don’t want to miss.

Get involved with us by sending your feedback on the new website or sharing your best urban forestry success stories with us at info@vibrantcitieslab.org.