If you’ve walked through the Fort Point area of The Greenway recently, you may have noticed something different: the Taxodium trees that once defined the space just north of Oliver Street are no longer here. For many of us—including our Horticulture Team—these trees were cherished companions. They offered shade on sunny days, color with the seasons, and a sense of place for everyone who passed beneath their branches.

Saying goodbye is never easy. But just as our city evolves, so too must our landscapes.

 

Why We Said Goodbye to this group of Taxodium Trees

At The Greenway, every plant we care for is part of a larger living system. Our horticulture team carefully monitors the health of each tree, taking into account soil quality, water availability, surrounding plantings, and even subtle microclimates that can change within just a few feet.

Over the years, despite thoughtful design and dedicated care, these particular Taxodium trees struggled to thrive, despite their companions thriving just across the walkway! We believe a mix of factors contributed to their decline:

• Changing environmental conditions – Rising urban temperatures, altered stormwater patterns, and shifting seasons can stress even resilient species.
• Competition from surrounding plantings – As nearby trees and shrubs grew stronger, they competed for sunlight, water, and nutrients.
• Unique site challenges – Urban environments can be harsh. Heat reflected from pavement, compacted soils, and inconsistent moisture all add stress.

After extensive evaluation, our team made the difficult decision to remove the trees this fall (2025). We never make these choices lightly. But in this case, removing the struggling Taxodiums allows us to renew the space, restore balance, and improve the overall health of the surrounding landscape.

A New Chapter: Planting for the Future

This is not an ending—it’s a transformation.

In their place, we’re introducing a thoughtfully selected mix of plants designed to thrive in this specific location and contribute to a resilient, diverse ecosystem. These new plantings will:

• Support local pollinators by adding nectar-rich flowers and habitat.
• Increase species diversity to better withstand pests, diseases, and environmental change.
• Introduce a new tree carefully chosen for its ability to succeed in the unique conditions of this site.

If you visit this bed soon after the removal, you may notice the landscape looks sparse at first. But like any young plant, it will take time for these plants to settle in, grow strong roots, and fill out the space. Over the coming seasons, you’ll be able to watch this bed transform into a vibrant, living tapestry.

How the Taxodiums Live On

Even in their absence, the Taxodium trees will continue giving back to The Greenway. Their wood will be upcycled into mulch, returning nutrients to the soil and supporting the next generation of plants.

Mulch plays a vital role in sustaining healthy urban landscapes:

• Suppresses weeds naturally
• Retains moisture to conserve water
• Improves soil structure and fertility
• Protects roots from erosion and extreme temperatures

In this way, the trees’ legacy continues—nourishing the very soil where new life will take root.

Growing Together

We understand that losing familiar trees can feel personal. They’ve been part of our collective memory of this place. But change is part of every living landscape, and with change comes opportunity.

The Greenway Conservancy remains committed to building a resilient, diverse urban canopy—one that can adapt to evolving environmental conditions while providing beauty, shade, and ecological benefits for generations to come.

As you walk through this space, we invite you to reflect on the natural cycles of growth, renewal, and transformation. Watch with us as this bed matures over time, becoming a thriving part of The Greenway once again.

Thank you for growing with us.

— The Greenway Conservancy Team