One of the best ways to ensure a healthy, long-lived tree is to uncover the root flare before planting. Help us pull back soil on hundreds of trees before we give them away this fall.
Don't know what a root flare is? No problem. We will show you exactly what we are looking for and why it is so important.
What to Expect:
-Work requires digging in soil, bending, crouching and lifting.
-Sharp tools, like soil knives and pruners, will be used.
-Snacks will be provided. Please bring a reusable water bottle.
-Dress for the weather all work will be outside.
-Wear closed toe shoes and clothes you don't mind getting dirty.
-All tools and gloves will be provided.
Where:
The work location will be next to the Mt. Tabor Community Garden near SE Lincoln & 64th Ave. A Map will be sent ahead of the event.
When: Thursday, October 30, 2025 from 2:30 pm - 6:00 pm
We know Thursday schedules can be complicated - it's ok if you can't make it right at 2:30pm! We will have a demonstration at 2:30pm and again at 4:00pm.
What and Where is the Root Flare?
Don't know what a root flare is? No problem. We will show you exactly what we are looking for and why it is so important.
Each tree has a root flare. This is the area where the first main roots flare out from the trunk. Typically, these roots are the size of your thumb. The root flare is a good indicator of how deep or shallow a tree should be planted.
Planting trees too deep is a major cause of tree failure.
Sometimes, these roots can be covered by a thick layer of soil in the nursery pot. Before you plant a tree, it is important to remove the soil and expose the top of the root flare. Remove any roots that are circling the trunk above the root flare.
Portland Parks & Recreation Urban Forestry's mission is to manage and ensure Portland's urban forest infrastructure for current and future generations. Portland’s urban forest consists of 236,000 street trees, 1.2 million park trees, and innumerable private property trees.
Urban Forestry is involved in managing or regulating all of these trees to differing degrees. Urban Forestry staff issue permits for planting, pruning, and removal of all public and some private trees and are on call 24/7 to respond to tree emergencies.
For more information on Urban Forestry at portland.gov/trees.
