Hi fellow garden lovers! October in Pennsylvania isn’t just about pumpkins and leaf piles, it’s actually one of the best times to plant a tree. If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to add shade, beauty, or a little backyard habitat, this is it.
And some fantastic news: The Abington Shade Tree Commission is offering FREE trees Saturday, October 25th! Yep, free. Even better, the Shade Tree Commission folks can answer your questions about which trees are the right fit for your yard and how to care for them. If you’re curious or want to volunteer, you can reach them at STC@abingtonpa.gov. I’ll be there for the giveaway too, doing my bit to re-tree (not sure that’s a word?) Abington.
If you can’t make the event don’t worry, Primex Garden Center has trees year-round, and their staff can help you find the right pick for your space. You can ask for Bill or Marshall when you stop by.
Why Plant a Tree?
Every year, Abington loses more of its tree canopy and private residences provide about 78% of it. When trees disappear, so do the benefits they bring us. Planting a native tree isn’t just about shade, it’s about protecting our homes, our neighborhoods, and our wildlife. Here’s what a tree can do:
- Boost property value: A mature tree can add thousands of dollars to your home’s worth.
- Cut utility bills: Shade in the summer, windbreak in the winter = savings on energy.
- Keep our town cooler: Trees lower temperatures directly (shade) and indirectly (evaporative cooling).
- Prevent flooding: Roots capture and hold rainwater, slowing stormwater runoff (one of my favorite benefits!)
- Fight climate change: Trees sequester carbon as they grow.
- Clean our air: By absorbing pollutants, trees make the air healthier for us.
- Support wildlife: Native trees are critical food and shelter for birds, butterflies, moths, and countless insects. (In fact, Oaks support over 450 insects, birds and mammals)
Without native trees, our local wildlife simply cannot thrive.
For more research on the economic, health, and ecological benefits of trees, check out the Arbor Day Foundation, the Arbor Day Alliance for Community Trees, and the Audubon Society.
Best Trees for Our Growing Zone (6b/7a-ish)
Looking to plant smart? Here are a few solid native choices that will make your yard, and the pollinators, happy:
- Red Maple: Reliable shade, stunning fall color.
- Serviceberry (Amelanchier): Spring blooms and summer berries for both birds and humans.
- River Birch: Perfect for wetter spots, with beautiful bark for winter interest.
- Eastern Redbud: Spring pink blossoms that wake the whole street up.
- White or Red Oak: Slower growing, but a powerhouse for supporting local wildlife.
(Pro tip: Skip the Bradford Pear. It’s invasive, weak-limbed, and generally not worth the trouble.)
Planting Tips for the Mediocre Gardener
- Dig wide, not deep. Make your hole 2–3x wider than the root ball, but no deeper.
- Mulch like a donut, not a volcano. Keep mulch away from the trunk.
- Water well. Even in fall, consistent moisture helps roots establish.
- Stake only if necessary. Most young trees can stand tall on their own.
Final Thoughts: Grow the Canopy, Grow the Community
Whether you pick up a free tree from the Shade Tree Commission or swing by Primex for the right fit, planting a tree this October is a gift to your yard, your neighbors, and your future self. A little effort this fall will pay off in shade, cleaner air, cooler summers, and a healthier ecosystem for years to come.
I’d love to see what you’re planting—did you get a free tree? Did you pick something for shade, for wildlife, or just because you liked the look of it? Share your Mediocre Tree Moments with me on Instagram or at dearmediocregardener@gmail.com. Who knows, your sapling story might branch out into a future column.
For more of The Mediocre Gardener’s column with Glenside Local, you can click here. For more on Primex Garden Center of Glenside, you can visit their website and Facebook page.
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