Tree Care

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Tree Planting District Map 2024-2027

City Duties

Parkway trees are owned and maintained by City crews on a regular trimming schedule. Parkway trees are generally located in the area between the sidewalk and the curb of any street. Tree trimming is done to enhance the trees’ health and to make sure sidewalks and streets are clear of safety hazards.

Homeowner Tree Care

Caring for these trees is a community effort. Home and business owners take responsibility by regularly watering the parkway trees in front of their properties in accordance with Cerritos Municipal Code Section 9.75.120. With very young trees, deep watering is best because it encourages roots to grow downward, away from curbs, sidewalks and driveways. Through proper care of newly planted trees, you’ll make a positive impact on the long-term health of the tree and beauty of our parkways. Here is how:

Encourage growth: Do not alter the staking. Tight staking can inhibit strong growth.
Remove clutter: Keep the base of tree free of weeds and plants.
Water often: Place a hose at the tree’s base and turn on water slowly. This allows water to penetrate deeply into the soil, promoting downward root growth, which can help prevent sidewalk lifts and broken curbs. Water slowly, 2-3 times per week in the warm months and once per week in the cold months. After one year, your regular irrigation system should provide sufficient water for your tree.
Keep weed killer at least 10 feet away from the tree.

New City trees are planted with plenty of fertilizer to last four to five years. For this reason, home owners should avoid over-fertilizing their parkways, as excess nutrients can burn tree roots. Home owners should also leave a 6 to 8-inch ring of soil at the base of their trees so that the trees won’t have to compete with the lawn for water. This soil buffer also helps keep the nylon strings from weed-eating machines safely away from young trees.

Urban Forestry

The following are common tree varieties planted in the City of Cerritos:

Aristocrat Pear
Brisbane Box
Cajeput
Canary Island Pine
Crape Myrtle
Fern Pine
Ginkgo
Golden Rain Tree
Grecian Laurel
Holly Oak
Italian Stone Pine
Modesto Ash
Pink Idaho Locust
Pittosporum
Purple Leaf Plum
Sharpleaf Jacaranda
Small Leaf Tristania
Southern Magnolia
Sweet Gum
Sycamore

For More Information

Contact the Public Works Department at (562) 916-1220.