Earth Month is here! You probably know the story of how Earth Month began—back in 1970, over 20 million Americans participated in demonstrations and events, sparking a movement that led to the first Earth Day and, eventually, a whole month dedicated to our planet. But did you know about Earth Month’s older and lesser-known cousin? That’s right, Arbor Week.

Arbor Week was officially proclaimed in 1874 and doesn’t get nearly the same hype as Earth Month. Here at Landscape Management, we love the earth—but we go crazy for trees. And we know trees deserve more than a day—they deserve a whole month (or honestly, the whole year)!

What is a tree canopy?

Let’s start at the beginning. What is a tree canopy? A tree canopy refers to the layer of branches and leaves that form the upper part of a tree. It’s basically nature’s umbrella, shading us from the sun, cooling our streets, and giving homes to all kinds of wildlife. Our tree canopy is what makes Charlotte the City of Trees. With gorgeous and luscious greenery lacing its branches like they’re holding hands, it’s hard to miss the beauty.

But the canopy doesn’t just look pretty—it works hard, too! Our trees provide shade on those sweltering summer days, clean air for us to breathe, and habitats for birds, squirrels, and plenty of other critters. They even help boost property values and reduce stormwater runoff. You could say that trees are pretty selfless.

Trees of all kinds

Not all trees are the same, and neither are their roles in our community. Charlotte’s tree canopy includes trees on both public and private property, and each one helps create the lush, green landscape we’re known for.

• Public Trees: These are trees planted in places like parks, greenways, and along our streets. That includes street trees, which grow in the right of way—the strip of land bordering the street, usually between the sidewalk and the street. These right-of-way trees are considered public trees, even if they’re directly in front of someone’s home. They’re part of the city’s urban forest and are maintained by Landscape Management to ensure they stay healthy and safe.
  
• Private Trees: These are trees growing on residential or commercial property like your front yard, backyard, or that favorite shady spot by the porch. While they’re privately maintained, they’re just as important in supporting our canopy and creating habitat for wildlife.

Together, they weave a lush, protective canopy that makes Charlotte feel like home.

Earth Month or Arbor Week: Why Not Both?

Earth Month and Arbor Week go hand in hand. Earth Month gives us the big-picture inspiration to protect our planet, while Arbor Week digs deep into celebrating and caring for the trees that make our community thrive.  It’s a week where we get to go full-on tree nerd, planting new ones, celebrating old ones, and learning how to care for the canopy that makes our city special.

Want to join us? We’ve got plenty going on so get involved!

Upcoming Events

April 3: Earth Day Celebration at UNC Charlotte

Stop by our table and learn how you can get help care for Charlotte’s trees!

April 12: Earth Day Celebration at Independent Picture House

We’ll be here too, so come say hi and snag some tree tips!

(April 14–17): Pollinator Garden Installations 

Help transform school gardens into pollinator-friendly spaces! These plantings are managed by Keep Charlotte Beautiful and are happening at four schools. Keep an eye out for before-and-after shots and stories from the students who pitch in!

 (April 21–25): Arbor Week

• We’re celebrating all week long with daily tree quizzes and chances to win prizes. Plus, on April 14, Mayor Vi Liles will present her Arbor Day proclamation during the City Council meeting.
  
• On April 25, the Wells Fargo Building will light up green in honor of Arbor Day.

Arbor Day Celebration – Treetops & Tombstones (April 26):

Join us for the official Arbor Day event, complete with a tree-planting ceremony and community celebration. 

Get Involved and Grow Our Canopy

Want to make a real impact this Earth Month and Arbor Week? We’d love your help growing Charlotte’s canopy. Whether you’re planting a new tree, helping water a young sapling, or simply cheering us on from your backyard hammock, your support makes a difference.

Here’s the best part—we want to give you a free tree! That’s right. Sign up HERE to get your own tree planted and become a part of Charlotte’s tree canopy.

Let’s show our love for the planet and for the trees that make Charlotte unique.