Keeping Westgrove Green
In 2021, a special committee formed to educate and inspire the community on Westgrove’s most notable feature: our beautiful tree canopy. Known as the Tree Amigos, our three dedicated neighbors authored weekly articles on tree care, composting, the importance of native trees, and more.
Tree Selection
Identifying the Trees on your Property
Understanding the trees on your property is the first step in caring for them.
Similar to their taller counterparts, selecting the correct small trees and shrubs makes all the difference.
Selecting a Tree for your Property
Choose the right trees for your property and plant them at the right time.
The Much-Maligned Gumball Tree
Learn to love this quirky (and sometimes messy) tree found in many of Westgrove’s gardens.
Take tree selection one step further by planting native trees in your garden.
Tree Care
Trees add value to your property and taking care of them makes financial sense.
Protecting Newly Planted Trees from Deer
Deer may be bountiful in our neighborhood, but we can protect our trees from their impact.
The first rule of pruning? Do no harm.
Planting a tree is trickier than it seems! Follow these steps for a successful tree planting.
Protecting Trees during Home Renovations
Home renovation and repair is a lot of work - don’t forget to consider your trees during the process.
The second rule of pruning? Find the right tree expert.
Keep your trees healthy and hydrated not only in our hot summer months, but throughout the year.
Ivy is an invasive species and can damage your trees. Learn how to properly remove it.
Although we won’t see them for many years, learn how to spot cicada damage.
Soil, Mulch, and Compost
Soil: The Mystery Under Your Feet (Part 1)
Soil is mostly invisible, but its complex nature can add to the health and beauty of your garden.
Green, or living, mulch is another option to keep your trees healthy and provide habitat options for other creatures.
Soil: The Mystery Under Your Feet (Part 2)
Go beyond soil and learn how our clay top layer can impact your plantings.
Our large tree canopy leads to a lot of leaves. Use them to your garden’s advantage.
The Dos and Don’ts of Mulching Your Trees
There are many benefits to mulching your trees, but it’s important to do it the right way.
Westgrove-specific Topics
Much of Westgrove’s tree canopy is comprised of oak varieties. Learn how to protect these special trees.
The message that started it all: see why Westgrove’s trees inspired the formation of the Tree Amigos.
Additional Resources
Trees add a lot of value to our homes - don’t overlook this important asset!
Trees and Stormwater Management
Stormwater is a growing issue in Alexandria. Trees can help slow water down, allow it to sink in, and spread it out.
Finding and Working with an Arborist
There are many considerations for selecting an arborist, who can provide critical assessments for your trees.
Tree Inspiration: Gardens and Books
Westgrove is close to many acclaimed gardens - gain inspiration from these and several book recommendations.