Replant a tree

If you see an empty tree pit on a sidewalk—whether it contains a stump or not—and you would rather see a healthy new tree growing there, we can help you make it happen.

Read below to find out how the process works.

The Initiative

Kanach Yerevan is conducting a pilot project to see if residents are willing to plant and care for trees to make our city greener. This approach, known as citizen-funded planting, is successful in many cities worldwide—so why not in Yerevan? We are running this experiment to demonstrate public demand to the city administration. If successful, the community-led tree planting could become an official municipal regulation.

What you need to do

To participate, you must be prepared to purchase a sapling that meets city standards, ensure it is planted correctly, and care for it until it is established. The following requirements must be met:

• The right species. The tree must be suitable for the specific street. For example, conifers should not be planted where planes are the dominant species, and fruit trees are generally prohibited on city streets. Use common sense or ask garden center staff for guidance.
• Size. The tree must be at least 3.5 meters tall and 5 years old. These are available at most major garden centers, such as O2 or Grig Garden. Prices typically start at 49,000 AMD, depending on the species.
• Planting. Proper planting is crucial for survival. We recommend hiring a specialist. Garden centers usually offer planting services for 10–20% of the tree's price and often provide a survival guarantee.
• Water. Most empty spots lack irrigation (which is often why the city hasn't replanted there). You will need to water the tree for the first 2 to 3 years or coordinate with neighbors to ensure it stays hydrated.
• Maintenance. Monitor the tree's health. If you notice drying leaves, pests, or broken branches, consult a specialist. It is also highly recommended to fertilize the tree twice a year.

How we can help

• Find a location. You likely already have a spot in mind, but you can also use our map to identify empty pits in your neighborhood. This should be an empty pit on a street sidewalk, not in a park or courtyard. This program is specifically about the sidewalks.
• Species selection. Based on the location, we can provide a list of recommended species that will thrive and match the existing urban canopy.
• Permits. We coordinate with city officials to secure the necessary planting permissions for your chosen location and species.
• Irrigation support. We can provide a "tree gator" (watering bag) to help water the tree efficiently in areas without fixed irrigation.
• Recognition. We will share the story of your contribution—whether you are an individual, a business, or a community group.

Next steps

If you are interested in joining this experiment, please fill out the form below. We will contact you when the planting season begins. Please share this initiative with anyone else who might be interested.