As trees begin to bud, make sure yours are healthy. If your trees aren’t leafing out or show other signs of disease, it’s important to take steps to treat, remove or replace them.

Remove infested ash trees
Last autumn, City staff identified trees dying due to Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) infestation, focusing on trees along major and arterial roads. Door hangers notified residents that they need to remove the trees by spring.

As the trees begin to bud this spring, Community Standards will begin the formal enforcement process for remaining affected trees along major roads. Staff understand trees can be costly to remove and will work with homeowners when possible — but dead or dying trees become a public safety hazard if left unattended.

Add to our urban forest this spring
Spring is also a good time to plant new trees. Planting a tree provides so many benefits: they increase property values, reduce energy consumption, improve air quality, provide habitat for wildlife and beautify the landscape.

If you’re replacing an ash tree, our street tree replacement program can provide a 50% refund on the cost of the new tree (does not include removal costs).

There are some excellent native species to plant on your property. Free seedlings of one great choice — the redbud — will be available in the City Hall lobby after the mayor signs the annual Arbor Day proclamation at the April 20 City Council meeting.

If you decide to purchase a native tree species, you can apply for a 75% reimbursement through Lenexa’s Stormwater Cost Share Program.