This winter, the City of Armadale will be engaging in a programme of extensive tree planting, as part of a broader goal to increase the City’s total canopy.
“The City continues to take a proactive, long-term approach to growing its urban tree canopy, recognising the critical role trees play in creating cooler, greener and more liveable communities,” they have declared.
“The City has been actively investing in its urban canopy for more than a decade, guided by its Urban Forest Strategy since 2014 and continuing to evolve its approach in response to new data, best practice and the realities of a changing climate.
“This work reflects a clear focus on building environmental resilience across the City, using tree planting and greening initiatives to reduce urban heat, support biodiversity and improve the health and wellbeing of the community.
“Each year, the City undertakes a winter planting program across verges, road reserves and public open spaces. This work helps increase canopy coverage, reduce urban heat and improve the look and feel of local neighbourhoods, alongside a range of community-focused greening initiatives.”
Indeed, with Perth possessing the lowest tree coverage of any Australian capital, sitting around 16-22%, urban planting is considered as being of paramount importance. Furthermore, coverage is in decline due to urban development and lack of protection on private property, furthering the case.
For the 2026 winter season, planting will take place across key locations including Don Simmons Reserve in Brookdale and Kuhl Park in Camillo, with a community planting event also planned for Shipwreck Park in Hilbert.
Street tree planting will also continue across the City, in addition to the Street Tree Request Program, which has seen applications from residents in 16 suburbs this year alone.
A diverse range of species has been selected for planting, with each site assessed individually to ensure trees are suited to local conditions. There is a strong focus on waterwise and native species, with endemic species prioritised wherever possible to support long-term canopy resilience.
To support the health and longevity of new plantings, the City will implement a range of establishment measures, including soil improvement, irrigation support, staking and ongoing maintenance such as pruning. Based on current programme planning, the 2026 winter planting season is expected to deliver more than 400 advanced trees, 5,000 tube stock plantings, and an additional 300 trees provided to residents for planting on private land through the Branch Out program.
Most planting will be undertaken by City teams, with contractor support where required, and opportunities will also be created for the community to be directly involved through planting events and programmes delivered in partnership with local groups.
The Street Tree Request Programme is a key part of this approach, enabling residents to request street trees for their verge. As part of this programme, the City supplies and plants the trees at no cost, with residents supporting their establishment through watering, helping to build a shared sense of ownership and care for the urban canopy.
Mayor Ruth Butterfield has commented on the programme, saying that growing Armadale’s tree canopy is a long-term investment in the City’s future.
“We know that increasing our tree canopy has real benefits for our community, from reducing urban heat islands and supporting local biodiversity, to improving the overall liveability of our suburbs,” she said.
“Importantly, this isn’t just one programme or one season of planting. It’s a consistent, proactive effort over time, and it’s something we’re building together with our community. It’s wonderful to have families planting trees and then reaping the reward of watching ‘their trees’ getting bigger over the years.
“We’re seeing more residents wanting their streets to be green, leafy and walkable in summer. Whether it’s requesting a street tree or getting your hands dirty on local planting days, it’s easy to get involved.”
For more information on the City’s urban greening initiatives, including the Urban Forest Strategy, Branch Out programme, Street Tree Request Programme and other environmental programmes, readers are advised to visit Engage Armadale.
