Trees are a vital natural resource which increase property value, improve air quality, provide shelter and food for wildlife, help conserve energy, and enhance the visual image of our community.

Over the past decade, varying landscape standards have been applied to residential and retail development that has occurred in central Oklahoma. This mixture of landscaping within the community contributes to an incongruent and disjointed visual character. Upon observation of this emerging character, citizens within the Oklahoma City Metropolitan Area expressed their desire through various visual preference surveys to improve landscaping standards in subdivisions, commercial establishments, and along transportation corridors. Achieving multiple goals, the establishment of trees and enhancement of the environment through landscaping benefits a community’s visual and ecological image, bolsters economic reinvestment, and heightens social well-being.

This guide was developed to provide a source for general knowledge of trees to assist in urban reforestation. It is intended for use by homeowners, property owners and developers alike. Providing details and guidelines for selecting, planting and caring for trees, this guide will help the public make informed landscaping decisions, thus avoiding costly mistakes. Proper plant selection and care will improve the health and longevity of trees in the urban environment, and in turn offer aesthetic, social, economic and environmental benefits to our communities.

Therefore, I challenge and encourage each of you to aid in the beautification of our community, enhancement of our quality of life, and stewardship of our environment by "Putting Down Roots."

Aubrey Hammontree, Planner II
City of Oklahoma City
Planning Department