Boston Guide

Tree Guards - Boston MA

installing tree guards w/ pine bark mulch to protect trees

Boston, like many other cities, call the cutout in the sidewalk designed for tree streets, “Tree Pits”. But no matter what people call them, these patches of soil unilaterally serve as beautiful city oases in which green things can take root, grow and spread fresh air and joy to the people below.

Boston is doing a great job expanding the size of their tree pits. The bigger the better in our eyes. The more soil volume and water capacity, the happier the street tree. And these trees sure look happy! These larger tree pits, also help to divert water especially as sea levels rise and major storm events become more frequent.

planting perennials in tree fence & tree pit

In Boston there is an abundance of these “I’m New” signs. This is a great way to educate locals residents about their new tree, healthy tree tips, and provide contact numbers to handle questions.

landscape architect hardy alternatives for older trees
tree's roots after severe drought need ample rain
city's arborist from parks department plant new trees

Boston is doing a great job expanding the size of their tree beds. The bigger the better. The more soil volume and water capacity, the happier the street tree. And these trees sure look happy!

leaves begin other annuals

Please don’t grate – trees will hate (them over time). Because trees:

  • naturally grow towards the sun,
  • can be impacted by the wind tunnel effect, and
  • become too big for the opening,
  • grates can girdle (chocke) trees.

Even the straightest of trees where the tree is perfectly positioned, grates will never protect the trunk and are litter magnets.

following advice on other materials

Another thing that was apparent was how cute and creative people were with their garden plantings, window boxes and signage, including this artistic sign below that couldn’t be more clear and concise.

We always try to keep our information as up to date as possible – but if we have missed something, please let us know (contact us at info@curballure.com), as we are happy to update this page as needed. The better informed we all are, the better it is for the street trees and your community.

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