Forestry & Trees

Tree Removal & Planting

As part of a Township-wide tree maintenance program, parks staff will remove all dead and damaged trees on municipality owned property and plant a new one if the location is right for planting. The majority of trees that will be removed have been killed by the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) affecting municipalities across southern Ontario. 

The Township of King is committed to replacing the removed trees. In some circumstances (conflict with utilities or sight lines) a replacement may not occur. In these cases we will plant a tree in an alternate location to ensure King's tree canopy continues to be one of the primary features in keeping King green.

If you spot a tree on municipal property that needs inspection contact parks@king.ca​

Tree Maintenance

Trees require care and maintenance to remain healthy and safe. Here are some tips and practices you can follow to keep your trees in good health:

Genera​​​l Tips

  • ​​When budgeting for lawn care and seasonal landscaping, set some funds aside for tree maintenance​.
  • Water trees during dry periods and apply mulch two to three inches deep around the base to encourage growth.
  • Avoid soil compaction; placing or moving heavy objects over the root zone of your tree can be hazardous. Compaction reduces air space in the soil, making it harder for water and oxygen to reach your tree's roots.

Pru​​ni​ng

  • Good pruning will promote the safety, health, longevity, and attractiveness of your tree.
  • What to prune: dead, diseased or damaged branches, obstructing branches, and crown thinning to promote growth and air circulation.
  • When to prune: pruning is best performed in the fall or early winter when the tree (and potential fungi and insects) are dormant.
  • How much to prune: no more than 25% of the crown of the tree. Excessive pruning exposes your tree to disease and infestation by insects, and risks fatally damaging your tree.​
  • If your tree is too large to prune safely on your own, consider hiring a certified arborist to perform the work. A certified arborist will know how best to promote your tree's health, safety, and aesthetic appearance.​

​​​Protect Trees From ​​​Damage

  • If possible, avoid using lawn care or other equipment in the immediate vicinity of your tree.
  • Do not tie, nail or attach objects to the trunk of the tree.
  • When digging, take care not to cut or damage any exposed roots.
  • Look for signs of pests or disease. Refer to Managing Disease and Hazards below for more information. Please note that under the Pesticides Act, 2009, it is illegal to use pesticides or chemicals for residential lawn care treatment in Ontario.

Managing Diseases & Hazards

​​​​​To maintain the health and longevity of your tree, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and threats posed to your tree by disease and injury.

As a private property owner, it is your responsibility to ensure that your tree does not pose a risk to the lives or property of others - you may be liable for injuries or damage caused by your tree if it falls down.

If you suspect your tree is a potential hazard, strongly consider having the tree removed as soon as possible. If you are unsure of your tree's condition, contact a certified arborist to conduct an inspection of the tree. Depending on its condition, an arborist may be able to save a portion of the tree and provide valuable advice about how to prevent further damage.