Verges and Street Trees
Find out about verges and street trees including our verge herbicide program, the free verge plant program, the street tree program and how to 'keep it local' with local plant species.
Verge Herbicide and Planting Program
We provide free verge herbicide (glyphosate biactive) to assist with managing weeds on residential verges. If you're not keen on herbicides, you can contact us for advice on alternative methods of weed control.
Application Form for Verge Herbicide
Street Tree Program
There are many economic, environmental and social benefits to tree canopy cover. Trees are an important natural asset that provide shade, reduce air temperature and control storm water flow. They also offer economic value by helping reduce energy costs and increasing property values. Studies have also shown green space to have a positive impact on mental health.
Trees are especially effective for cooling neighbourhoods and improving comfort during warm, sunny weather through evaporation and shade. Research has shown that, in hot weather, it can be up to six degrees cooler under a densely shading tree. Shade is critical for improved human thermal comfort.
Trees and plants improve people’s sense of wellbeing. The Shire’s Street Tree Program provides a number of benefits. These include, but are not limited to:
Environmental benefits
- Trees increase biodiversity
- Trees act as wind breaks
- Plants improve air quality
- Plants reduce greenhouse gas emissions
Economic benefits
- Trees increase property values
- Plants provide cooler liveable residential areas
- Trees reduce energy demands, particularly in summer due to shade
Apply for a free street tree here
Free Verge Plant Program
This initiative is proudly co-funded by Water Corporation’s Waterwise Greening Scheme and forms part of our ambition for the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale to be a leading waterwise community.
The Free Verge Plant Program operates annually in partnership between Landcare SJ, the Roadside Care Volunteers, and the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale.
The program is advertised here and on the Shire Facebook page each year when the program opens for registrations.
Residents can receive plants up to four times (conditions apply).
Residents are encouraged to plant native species in their gardens which increases connectivity for native birds and and animals throughout the Shire.
Keeping It Local
We encourage the use of plants native to the Swan Coastal Plain wherever possible. These plants are hardy, waterwise, and in some instances even fire-resistant.
Useful Documents
Keeping It Local - Native Species List
Local Low Flammability Native Species
Recommended Urban Trees: Indigenous and Exotic