Neighborhood tree planting day in East Portland
Plant street trees with Friends of Trees in a historically under-canopied neighborhood in East Portland. Family-friendly, no experience needed.
Why we picked this
Friends of Trees has been doing this for 35 years and their planting days are genuinely well-run — you plant a real tree in front of a real house, and the homeowner is usually there to say thank you.
Friends of Trees coordinates street tree plantings in Portland neighborhoods that have been identified as having low canopy coverage, which often correlates with higher summer temperatures and fewer natural cooling areas. On planting day, volunteer crews of 4-6 people are assigned a block and walk house to house planting pre-selected species — typically native oaks, maples, or fruit trees — in prepared holes along the parking strip.
Everything you need is on the truck: trees, soil amendment, stakes, ties, and tools. Crew leaders handle logistics and know the neighborhood. Your job is digging, planting, and watering in. It takes about four hours from assembly to cleanup. Layers are smart for a March morning — it’s physical enough that you’ll warm up fast, but the first hour can be cold. Wear boots you can get muddy.
Kids 8 and up can participate fully. Toddlers are welcome with a parent who understands they’ll be managing a small child while working. Groups are actively encouraged — Friends of Trees works with corporate teams, friend groups, and faith communities regularly. Coffee and snacks are provided at the morning briefing. This listing is for the East Portland planting; Friends of Trees runs additional events in other quadrants throughout the season.