We are excited to announce that Powhatan and Ridgely Manor parks are home to new trees!

Twenty-nine trees were planted in Ridgely Manor Park, including a diverse mix of plum, oak, black cherry, redbud, white oak, red oak, linden, and dogwood trees.  At Powhatan, 40 trees were planted, including black gum, bald cypress, swamp oak, flowering dogwood, American holly, Allegheny serviceberry, and blackhaw viburnum.  To safeguard the new trees at Powhatan, protective cages were installed to deter deer activity.

Grow Home Baltimore’s field crew planted the trees at both parks.  We are thrilled to partner with Grow Home, whose mission is to empower local leaders and create jobs by transforming neglected green spaces into thriving community hubs.  Grow Home’s programs include workforce development and training for green jobs and environmental restoration.

Fall is an ideal time to plant trees in the Mid-Atlantic region. Cooler air temperatures and warm soil create perfect conditions for robust root growth without the stress of summer heat. Additionally, consistent autumn rainfall reduces the need for supplemental watering, giving young trees the moisture they need to establish themselves.

During the fall, trees focus on building strong root systems rather than growing leaves or branches. This allows them to enter winter dormancy well-prepared and emerge in spring with a solid foundation for new growth.

Fall also offers fewer environmental stressors. Maryland’s summers bring intense heat, drought, and active pests, which can challenge young trees. In contrast, the cooler fall months provide a calmer environment with less pest activity, giving newly planted trees the best chance to thrive.

By the time spring arrives, these trees will be ready to grow and contribute to the beauty and ecological health of our parks.