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Tree Education

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Tree Classes & Events

Tree Pruning Basics for Every Yard - Help support the long-term health of Cary's urban forest by learning essential tips and techniques for basic tree pruning. Together, we can grow and care for the urban forest of tomorrow.

  • Fall 2026 program info coming soon!

Tree Talk - Join us for Q&A to learn more about planting, growing, and caring for healthy trees. This lunch-and-learn program is free and virtual. Registered attendees will receive a program calendar invite via Webex about 24 hours prior to the class. Registration closes 2 days before the program.

  • Fall 2026 program info coming soon!

My Tree, Our Tree Giveaway - Register to receive a free native tree, engage with environmental experts, and ask an arborist about the trees in your yard and how to enhance Cary's tree canopy. Learn More. 

  • Fall 2026 program info coming soon!

What's That Tree: Tree ID for All - Enjoy a fun walk in your local park where you’ll learn to identify trees and discover Cary’s commitment to a healthy urban forest. This family-friendly outing is perfect for all ages and a great way to connect with nature close to home.

  • Fall 2026 program info coming soon!

 

Tree Tips

Tree Pruning

Click here to learn about the best approaches to tree pruning.

How to Plant a Tree in Five Easy Steps

Local Master Arborist Katie Rose Levin shows how to grow healthy and beautiful trees through simple steps you can do at home.

 
Planting a tree in springtime? Check mulched areas and shrub beds for seedlings that need transplanting. The smaller the seedling, the better the chance of survival. Trees such as maple, ash, and dogwood germinate in the spring, and first-year seedlings are easier to move successfully. Oaks and other trees germinate in the fall. 

 

Top Trees for Your Yard

Dr. Barbara Fair, Landscape Specialist for NC State University and certified arborist, suggests some large and understory tree species. Consider using these native trees and plant material and removing invasive species.

 

 

Tree Care 101

Master arborist Katie Rose Levin points out some clues to look for to help you gauge the health of your trees.

 

 

Mulching

Practice good mulching this season with some tips from Town staff expert Srijana Guilford.

 

With the right touch, hardwood mulch retains soil moisture, acts as a buffer from extreme temperatures, and suppresses weeds. When it is time to mulch, know what’s needed:

  • Think 2x2x2: up to two inches of mulch, at least two inches away from the trunk, in a circle two feet wide or to the edge of the canopy when possible. 
  • Check the depth of existing mulch and, if sufficient, use a rake to break it up and refresh the look. Breaking up the mulch helps the tree roots access to air and water.
Following these suggestions prevents you from creating a "mulch volcano," mulching too high and too deep around tree trunks. These mounds of mulch are bad news for tree growth and development. They make tree bark prone to disease, attract insects and rodents, and affect root development. The NC Urban Forest Council provides more tree mulching tips.

 

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