How to Care for Your New Glen Rock Tree (and Get One of Your Own)

If you’ve noticed a fresh young tree planted in front of your home, it likely came courtesy of a Borough-hired contractor as part of Glen Rock’s commitment to maintaining a healthy, shady canopy. These new additions to our streetscapes need a little TLC to establish strong roots, especially during their first growing season.

Here’s how to help your new tree thrive all the way into fall:

Water Wisely
New trees need about 18 to 20 gallons of water per week. That’s roughly 8 to 10 gallons for every inch of trunk diameter. Water every 2 to 3 days using an open-ended hose or a tree watering bag like a Treegator. Remember: roots, not trunks. Always direct water to the root ball and the surrounding soil, not the trunk or leaves.

Keep It Moist, Not Soaked
Overwatering can be just as harmful as underwatering. The best way to know what your tree needs? Get your hands dirty. Dig under the mulch near the tree’s canopy and feel the soil. If it’s moist, skip the watering. If it’s dry, time to give it a drink.

Watch the Weather
Hot months mean your tree may need more frequent watering. Cooler days may mean less is needed. Keep an eye on the forecast and your soil moisture to adjust accordingly.

Leaf Watch
Dry, wilting, or curling leaves are your tree’s way of waving a little leafy flag. It’s thirsty. Be sure the green watering bag is filled regularly if one was installed at the base of the tree.

Want a Tree of Your Own?
If you’ve got tree envy, you can request one. Just fill out this Tree Request Form and submit it to the Borough. Trees are planted every Spring in the Right of Way (ROW) based on availability and approval.

Glen Rock residents can also snag free bare root seedlings thanks to the Thielke Arboretum. Keep an eye on their Free Tree Seedlings page for the 2026 giveaway dates.

Get Involved with Glen Rock's Trees
Want to get even more hands-on with Glen Rock’s leafy legacy? Attend a Shade Tree Advisory Committee meeting. They’re held at Borough Hall on the first Tuesday of each month (except holidays) at 7:15 p.m. and are open to all residents. Check the committee page for updates and details.