Community Pruning Program Interest

The Community Pruning Program allows us to offer low-cost fruit tree care for low-income Portland residents. Pruning is the process of intentionally removing dead, diseased, or damaged branches at least once a year. It helps plants stay healthy and leads to tastier, more abundant fruit.

Our team of trained staff and volunteers will provide seasonal pruning for fruit trees, vines, and shrubs at eligible properties for three years. This program is designed for community members who have fruit trees but may not have the financial resources to keep them healthy and productive.

We are able to provide this service thanks to grant funding from the Oregon Department of Forestry.

Benefits of Pruning Fruit Trees!

🌳 Healthier Trees
Regular pruning removes dead, diseased, or damaged branches, keeping your tree strong and resilient.

☀️ Better Fruit Production
Pruning improves sunlight and airflow, leading to bigger, tastier, and more abundant fruit.

⚡ Safer Trees and Yards
Removing weak or hazardous branches helps prevent breakage and storm damage.

🍎 Easier Harvesting
Thoughtful pruning keeps trees at a manageable size, making it easier to pick fruit and care for your tree.

Whether it’s improving structure, encouraging better fruit production, or restoring an overgrown tree, we focus on long-term health and sustainability. Our goal is to reduce barriers to good tree stewardship while helping residents enjoy healthier and more productive fruit trees.

How the Community Pruning Program Works

First, we’ll gather interest and see which neighborhoods participants are in. Then, we’ll schedule pruning dates based on location for efficiency. Pruning happens in winter and/or summer, depending on the type of plant.

Please note: We can only work on fruit trees that are 15 feet or shorter, but we might be able to consult with an arborist if your fruit trees are taller than 15 ft and in need of restoration.

Sliding Scale Pricing

This program uses a modified version of the Embracing Equity Sliding Scale as a starting point to ensure pricing is equitable and accessible. This model helps clients self-identify their financial position and pay an amount that feels fair based on their resources. The sliding scale approach allows us to offer low-cost tree care to those who need it most while keeping the program sustainable. No one will be turned away due to inability to pay; we are committed to making fruit tree care truly accessible for our community.

Eligibility

To see if your location is eligible, please check on this map.

• Step 1: Click "OK" in the popup window.
• Step 2: Make sure the check boxes for the filters are all checked!
• Step 3: Click on the magnifying glass (🔍) in the upper right corner.
• Step 4: Type your address into the search bar.

If your location is highlighted yellow, it is eligible! Please complete the full form below. If your space is close to a highlighted area, please reach out and we'll see what we can do.

We will prioritize seniors, People of Color, and low income households and those willing to work with us for the full three year term.

Participation Waiver

In return for being allowed to participate in Portland Fruit activities, including any activities incidental to such participation (“Volunteer Activities”), the undersigned tree owner (hereafter referred to using “I”, “me”, or “my”) releases and agrees not to sue Portland Fruit or its officers, directors, employees, sub-contractors, sponsors, agents and affiliates (“the Organization”) from all present and future claims that may be made by me, my family, estate, heirs, or assigns for property damage, personal injury, or wrongful death arising as a result of my participation in the Activities wherever, whenever, or however the same may occur.

PFTP carries insurance to cover property damage or injuries that may occur at your property. If you have questions, please don't hesitate to get in touch.