Planting a tree? Follow these steps

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There are tons of resources on the web to help you plant a tree in your yard. And really, why wouldn’t you? Trees are carbon sinks, storing pollutants, absorbing rain before it goes into the sewer system, and making cities more beautiful. Here are some great steps to help get you on the path to planting a tree today (or this fall – try to avoid planting in the summer when you need to water more).

1.  Check the guide to planting zones to see what size of tree is appropriate for the spot where you want to plant (in relation to power lines).

2. Portland General Electric suggests answering the questions on the tree planting checklist to consider placement, growing conditions and maintenance issues.

3. Learn how to plant a tree or join a local tree planting effort in your neighborhood to practice.

4. Consider selecting a native tree and other native plants for your yard. They will require less water than imported varieties.

5. Check to see if your city offers a “Treebate” – Portland did so through April.