Residents looking to brighten their streets while supporting urban biodiversity now have an opportunity to take an active role in greening their neighbourhoods through Montreal’s tree-pit adoption program.
The initiative invites residents to adopt and maintain small planting spaces, known as tree pits, located between sidewalks and roadways. These modest patches of soil, often overlooked, are increasingly being transformed into small gardens that add colour and life to city streets. A tree pit, sometimes called a tree square, typically surrounds a street tree, though some larger spaces can support more than one planting area.
A simple way to support neighbourhood biodiversity
The program allows residents to adopt one or more tree pits and enhance them with plants that support biodiversity while improving the visual appeal of local streets.
Participants who register before May 1 may receive plants, compost, and mulch free of charge, depending on availability. Protective stakes and informational signage are also available through local Éco-quartier service points.
In neighbourhoods where green space is limited, even small planting projects can have a visible impact, softening hard urban landscapes and providing habitat for pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Planning ahead before planting
Officials stress that preparation is essential before beginning any landscaping. Residents are encouraged to confirm whether their chosen tree pit is scheduled for municipal work, such as tree removal or new planting.
Tree pits containing stumps or lacking trees altogether should not be planted until municipal plans are verified. Residents can contact city services to determine whether future work is planned for the site. Planting trees independently in public tree pits is not permitted, as tree selection and placement are managed by municipal forestry services.
Rules designed to protect safety
To maintain safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and snow-removal crews, several design rules must be followed.
Plants must remain under one metre in height, while borders or decorative structures cannot exceed 30 centimetres. A clear path of at least 1.8 metres must be maintained to allow safe movement along sidewalks and access for maintenance equipment.
Residents are also advised to avoid planting directly against tree trunks or using climbing plants, as these practices can damage tree roots and affect long-term tree health. Participants remain responsible for maintaining their adopted tree pits, and installations that do not meet guidelines may be removed.
Choosing plants suited to urban life
Experts recommend selecting hardy perennial plants capable of withstanding challenging urban conditions such as heat, pollution, and winter salt.
Native plants that attract pollinators are particularly encouraged, along with ground-cover species that help control weeds and stabilize soil. Certain plants, including invasive species, climbing plants, and vegetable crops, are not permitted due to environmental and public health concerns.
How residents can get involved
Residents may register to adopt a tree pit at any time during the year, but early registration increases the likelihood of receiving materials such as plants and compost.
Before planting, residents are encouraged to confirm eligibility by contacting Montreal’s 311 service, which can provide information about scheduled municipal work.
Questions about permitted plants or design guidelines can be directed to the program by email at vsp.carredarbre@montreal.ca, while additional support and materials are available through local Éco-quartier service points.
As more residents participate, these small spaces have the potential to make a meaningful difference, turning simple patches of soil into vibrant additions that benefit both neighbourhood streets and the environment.
