Small Projects for Neighbourhoods

Planting drought tolerant, native, and non-invasive ornamental plants in boulevard tree wells attracts pollinators and supports biodiversity conservation in Surrey while adding vibrancy to neighbourhoods.

Steps 

1. Pick trees.
2. If required, create a tree well:
   • Mark a circle around the tree base that is at least one metre in diameter.
   • Remove any grass and weeds inside the circle.
   • Add a maximum height of ten centimeters of soil in the circle. Do not place soil against the tree trunk.
3. Add native pollinator plants to beautify your tree well. Check out drought-tolerant native plants from Surrey’s Skelkelosen Seed Blend.
4. Maintain the tree well.

Tips & resources

• Choose plants that are drought tolerant and can tolerate full or partial sun to reduce the need for watering.
• To maintain boulevard site lines, choose plants that grow <50cm.
• Avoid tree root damage. Buy small plants to minimize depth of digging.
• Avoid tree trunk damage. Do not pile soil up around trunk as that will lead to decay.
• Watering. Avoid daily shallow watering. Longer duration watering every few days is preferred as it leads to more soil saturation and deeper roots.
• Learn more about how to:
  • Care for tree wells
  • Support pollinators and biodiversity conservation
  • Use iNaturalist to contribute to the City's biodiversity conservations goals

Connect with your neighbours. The take one, leave one concept can be applied in many ways, such as: 

• Non-perishable food exchange  
• Community art gallery  
• Book, movie, or seed library 

Steps

1. Find a location that is safe, accessible, and legal to install.  
   • If on private property make sure you have permission and it is accessible to the public.
   • If in a park or road boulevard, reach out to neighbourhoods@surrey.ca for approval.
2. Build your own structure or purchase a pre-fabricated design. 
3. Install your library.

Tips & resources

• If your project requires digging, contact BC 1 Call to have a professional check the area and mark any spots you should avoid.
• Not abiding by boulevard and park guidelines may result in your library being a safety issue and removed.

Contribute to food security and community building by creating a mini sharing garden.

Steps

1. Find a shared space. Shared spaces can include private property, road boulevards, and curb bulges. 
   • If on private property: 
     • Obtain permission 
     • The location must be accessible to all 
2. Choose a theme for your garden (for example, an herb garden). 
3. Get gardening!

Tips & resources

• Check out the City's Sustainability Dashboard for key indicators related to local food, including community garden plots.

Beautify a chain link fence with a short-term beautification project!

Steps

1. Find a fence, and get permission if you need to.
2. Get yarn or other non-toxic fabric materials. 
3. Research different design ideas and pick your favourite.
4. Decorate the fence. 
   • Weave the yarn through the fence to make your design. 
   • Ensure the materials are securely fastened to the fence. 
5. Check-in to make sure the fence stays beautiful, and remove your project before it falls apart.