Columbia Green Resource Library

Beat the Heat—Plant a Tree Greater Columbia

  • About Beat the Heat

    Our one pager includes all the information you need to participate in Beat the Heat, including how to register for one of our educational luncheons and sign up to receive a free tree.

  • Benefits of Trees Infographic

    A concise list of some of the benefits of planting shade trees in a format that you can use with all ages to promote trees as a smart answer to urban heat, health, air quality, and liveability.

  • Descriptions of Available Trees

    This is the list of trees vetted by our city’s arborists and available to BTH participants. Read the descriptions and let us know your top three choices. We’ll do our best to get you what you choose!

  • 3 Things to Consider When Selecting a Tree

    It is important to consider your site, the shade your tree will throw, and size and spacing.

  • Arbor Day Bulletin 4

    Right Tree for the Right Place

    An Arbor Day Foundation bulletin that details many of the same things as in our 3 Things document which borrows images from this bulletin.

  • What to Expect When You're Expecting a Tree

    This resource gives you a quick idea of what is comin up in your tree planting journey.

  • Tree Planting Guide

    Learn step-by-step how o create the best future for your new tree.

  • Arbor Day Bulletin 4

    Tree Planting Guide- 2

    Need to know what to do next? Use this guide to lead you in the right direction.

  • How to Plant a Tree Diagram

    Follow along with the simple picture guide to ensure the best future for your tree.

  • Tree Diaper Info

    Your tree will be delivered with a tree diaper. Learn more about how this will ensure the livelihood of your new tree.

  • SC Native Plants

    A listing of trees and plants that are native to South Carolina and beneficial to wildlife. We recommend using native plants whenever you can.

  • Invasive Species List

    List of Invasive Species

    These plants are NOT recommended in the landscape as they are invasive and will quickly take over an area and squeeze out native plants.

  • Arbor Day Bulletin 4

    Tree Growth Timeline

    Your tree will have a long life ahead of it! Learn more about what is to come in this resource.

  • Columbia Heat Map

    Columbia is known for being famously hot. In this map you can see the heat distribution across the city and learn about how trees can help cool off the city.

How to Plant a Tree

Weston Beck of the City of Columbia’s Forestry and Beautification Department shows us how to plant a tree. Proper tree planting, watering, and mulching is important to ensure that your tree survives and thrives in its new home.

This is the video we shared at each of our quarterly Beat the Heat events.