Deciduous Shade Trees available to Long Hill residents

Posted on by Dan DiBella Posted in Long Hill Leader, Our Publications
(above) Eastern Redbud “Rosy pink flowers appear in April. Reddish-purple leaves change to dark green, then to yellow. Forms a spreading, graceful crown. Full sun or light shade. Partial shade preferred in windy, dry areas.”
Arbor Day Foundation

Shade Trees Available

Home or property owners in Long Hill can apply to purchase up to two deciduous shade trees for $225 each through a challenge grant offered through the Shade Tree Commission. The $225 level includes a variety of flowering and shade tree species and other species may be available upon request and at a higher amount.

Through the program, property owners may purchase a tree for about half the retail value, with the Township paying the balance with grant funds.  Installation is free and arranged by the Township, resulting in substantial savings for property owners.

Business owners are also encouraged to apply, particularly those along the Valley Road corridor.  All trees must be located so they can be seen from the street.

(above) “The Swamp White Oak is a great choice for a shade or street tree, with the ability to grow at a moderate pace and live more than 300 years. It’s the kind of tree you plant for not only your enjoyment but for the benefit of generations to come.”
Arbor Day Foundation

“We have seen the hazards of planting too many trees of one species such as the ash tree.” said Shade Tree Commission Chair Susan Jeans. “This year therefore, we are expanding our species list to include some new and exciting choices such as the Swamp White Oak and the Eastern Redbud.” 

Those interested in participating must complete and application available on the township website athttps://www.longhillnj.gov/forms/Challenge-grant-program-application.pdf  This application should be accompanied by a check for $225 per tree with a two tree limit and mailed to Township of Long Hill 915 Valley Road Gillette, NJ 07933

Applications are due by Monday, April 17, 2023. Only 20 applications will be accepted on a first come, first served basis.

Trees will be planted mid- to late-April. A Shade Tree Commission representative will contact the property owner to approve the location of tree(s) on the property and to select the variety of tree that would be the best fit for the location.

The commission reserves the right to make the final decision on location and arrangement for installation.  Once installed, the property owner becomes responsible for the watering and maintenance of the tree as prescribed by the Shade Tree Commission.