Costa Mesa offers free parkway tree planting program

Costa Mesa residents without a parkway tree in front of their homes may qualify for a free 15-gallon tree through the city’s Parkway Tree Planting Program.

The program is part of the city’s Urban Forest Management efforts. Costa Mesa, which has been designated a Tree City USA for 21 years, has an inventory of more than 23,000 trees and continues to seek opportunities to expand its canopy coverage.

Trees can help absorb traffic noise, cool neighborhoods, reduce energy costs by shading buildings, improve property values and support mental and physical health. Trees also absorb carbon dioxide, helping mitigate the effects of climate change.

Residents interested in the program can contact the Maintenance Services Division at 714.754.5123 to determine whether their property qualifies. The city will provide the tree, along with trimming and re-staking services as needed.

Homeowners are responsible for deep watering the newly planted tree to help it grow and remain healthy.