You can now buy a cheap tree under Stow's urban forestry campaign

Monday, Oct. 31, is the deadline for homeowners to apply to purchase a tree as part of the City of Stow Urban Forestry Department’s spring 2023 planting campaign.

Each tree costs $125 under the cost-share program with the Urban Forestry Department. The cost is $75 if the homeowner is a veteran, active military member, or an active or retired first responder. The cost is matched by the City of Stow.

Homeowners can choose to have a tree planted in either the city’s right-of-way area (between the curb and sidewalk) or in the private front or side yard of their property. The species of the tree for the right-of-way area will be chosen by Stow’s landscape arborist based upon the Stow Community Street Tree District Management Plan. The arborist will consult with the homeowner to select the proper tree for planting in the private yard.

Under the spring 2023 planting program, homeowners will receive a new tree, planting by certified arborists, mulching of the immediate area around the tree, a deer guard (which is removed after two to three years), a watering bag (filled regularly by the city on right-of-way trees and by the homeowner for private property trees) and a one-year nursery guarantee on all trees.

The Stow Urban Forestry Department, which will be celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2023, hopes to sponsor the planting of 60 trees next year, including in various parks or city-owned common areas.

The department encourages planting trees because of benefits that include giving shelter to birds and other animals, controlling stormwater runoff and air pollution, providing shade, improving mental health, increasing property values, and providing annual energy savings on air conditioning and heating costs.

Application forms and additional information can be obtained at www.stowohio.org under City Services/Urban Forestry. You can also visit Stow City Hall (3760 Darrow Rd.) or call 330-689-5121 or 330-689-2824 to get an application or for more information.