Departments » Community Development

Urban Forestry

Welcome to the City of Pearland Urban Forestry Program. Our mission is to maximize the aesthetic, environmental, and economic benefits that trees provide to residents and visitors. Through careful preservation, management, and enhancement of existing trees and vegetation, as well as promoting reforestation, we work to ensure that our urban area thrives with active community support and participation.

About the Urban Forestry Program

The Urban Forestry Program is dedicated to:

  • Helping residents select appropriate trees for planting: We offer guidance on choosing the right tree species for your location and needs.
  • Providing education on proper tree care: Learn about the best practices for maintaining healthy trees and the numerous benefits they bring to our environment.
  • Protecting, preserving, and restoring the urban forest canopy: We enforce codes, participate in planning, and coordinate tree planting efforts to sustain and enhance Pearland’s urban forest.

Pearland is proud to be recognized as a Tree City USA, a testament to our ongoing efforts to preserve and enhance our urban forest.

Educational Resources

Our program also provides a wealth of educational resources to help residents understand the importance of urban forestry. This includes information about the environmental benefits of trees, such as air purification, temperature regulation, and stormwater management. Additionally, we offer insights into the proper care and maintenance of trees to ensure their longevity and health in urban settings.

Tree Preservation and Planning

Chapter 4 of the Unified Development Code (UDC) outlines the City's commitment to tree preservation and sustainable site planning. Our goals include:

  • Protection of trees during construction: Ensuring that construction projects minimize impact on existing trees.
  • Facilitating site design and construction that supports tree viability: Encouraging development that allows trees to thrive long-term.
  • Controlling unnecessary tree removal: Implementing measures to prevent the needless loss of trees.
  • On-site and off-site tree replacement: Mandating the replacement of removed trees on-site when possible, or through off-site planting via the "Tree Trust."

Benefits to the Community

Adhering to these policies not only protects healthy trees but also:

  • Preserves the natural, ecological, environmental, and aesthetic qualities of our City.
  • Increases the value of residential and commercial properties within Pearland.
  • Enhances Pearland’s positive image, attracting new businesses and contributing to the overall quality of life for our community.

We also promote community involvement through initiatives like the Big Trees Program, where residents can learn about and contribute to the planting and care of large, heritage trees that provide significant environmental and aesthetic benefits.

Together, we can ensure that Pearland remains a green, vibrant, and beautiful city for generations to come.

 

FAQs:

Texas Oak Wilt

Fun Facts About Trees

Texas Big Tree Registry

Educational Information about Trees – (See webpage content below)

How to Plant a Tree

What kind of tree do I have?

 

Useful Documents:

Tree Ordinance 

Tree Credit Worksheet 

How to apply for tree removal permit- (in process of design.  Will share when available)

ANSI Nursery Stock Standards

Pruning Guidelines for Oak Wilt Prevention

Tree Owner's Manual

Watering Tips Information Packet

Tree Planting Detail- (in process of design.  Will share when available)

Tree Planting Specifications- (in process of design.  Will share when available)

Tree Protection Detail- (in process of design.  Will share when available)

 

Educational Information about Trees 

Understanding Urban Forestry 

Urban forestry is the strategic care and management of tree populations in urban settings, aiming to enhance the overall quality of life in cities. Trees are a vital component of urban infrastructure, providing numerous environmental, economic, and social benefits. Urban foresters are dedicated professionals who plant and maintain trees, support tree and forest preservation, conduct essential research, and advocate for the integration of trees into urban planning. 

Urban forestry is a multidisciplinary field, involving city planners, community leaders, consultants, educators, environmental policymakers, arborists, and researchers. These experts work collaboratively to ensure that urban forests are healthy, sustainable, and beneficial to all residents. 

Texas Tree Selector Tool 

Choosing the right tree for your yard is crucial for its long-term health and success. The Texas Tree Selector Tool is an excellent resource to help you find the perfect tree species for your landscape, specifically tailored to the conditions in Collin County. This tool allows you to narrow down your options based on local climate, soil type, and the specific needs of your property. Texas Tree Selector (tamu.edu) 

Small Tree Pruning: Do's and Don'ts 

Pruning is an essential part of tree care, but it must be done at the right time and in the correct way to promote healthy growth and prevent damage. Here are some key guidelines: 

  • When to Prune: In South Texas, trees can be pruned after they have fully leafed out in the spring until September. Pruning is also appropriate during the winter months after leaf drop and before the buds begin to swell in early spring. Avoid pruning in the spring when buds are swelling and during the leaf drop period in October. 

  • Avoid Pruning Oaks from March to June: To prevent the spread of oak wilt, do not prune any oak trees during these months. 

 

Professional Pruning Tips 

  • Central Leader Importance: The central leader is the main vertical trunk of a tree, crucial for maintaining its structural integrity. Trees like Texas red oak, sweet gum, or magnolia benefit from pruning to remove co-dominant stems and any poorly attached, crossing, or broken branches. 

  • Shaping and Growth: Prune competing branches to maintain the desired shape and direct growth towards strong, healthy branches and the main stem. 

  • Height of Lower Branches: Adjust the height of the lowest branches according to the tree’s purpose, whether it’s for screening, windbreaks, sidewalks, or street clearance. 

  • Mature Trees: Limit pruning mature trees to smaller branches that can be safely reached from the ground. Leave the removal of larger branches or any work requiring height to professional arborists equipped with the proper tools and insurance. 

  • Storm Damage: After a storm, remove all broken branches and reshape the tree as best as possible to encourage new growth. Consult with a professional arborist for serious structural damage that may require the installation of support rods or cables. 

 

For more detailed information, including tree care and maintenance tips, please visit the Texas A&M Horticulture website.