TU BISHVAT FEATURE: How Radishitz Shul Went the Extra Mile to Preserve a Fruit Tree During Parking Lot Expansion

By Y.M. Lowy

In honor of Tu B’Shvat, we’re marking the day with some fruit tree focused features.

In the Monsey–Airmont area, the well-known Radishitz Beis Medrash went through an unusual construction episode centered around a single fruit tree.

The shul, built close to fourteen years ago, made some expansions as the kehillah continued to grow, including a large outdoor Heichal HaTorah used regularly by local lomdim. About half a year ago, another building phase began to enlarge the beis medrash area and expand required additional parking.

During preparations on a lot that had been used for parking, a fruit tree was identified among the greenery - something they had not previously realized when the property was purchased years earlier. A landscaping expert pointed it out as work was about to begin.

Instead of simply removing it, the shul paused the project and brought the question to a major posek. Some halachic leniencies existed, but only with careful conditions. Detailed instructions were given, and the tree was relocated strictly according to halachic guidelines.

The process was complex and costly. The tree was first sold to a non-Jew, then removed together with a large surrounding section of earth to protect the roots. A non-Jewish crew handled the heavy work, using cranes and specialized equipment. The tree was then replanted elsewhere on the same property in a suitable location. The full operation took about two weeks of preparation and execution and cost tens of thousands of dollars.

Many parents brought their children to watch, turning it into a live lesson in how seriously issurim and mitzvos are treated, even when it requires extra time, effort, and expense.

After replanting, additional specialists were hired to monitor the tree, strengthen its recovery, and ensure proper growth. Today, the tree is well established and, according to those caring for it, has grown even better this past season than in earlier years.

This article was featured in “Shrift” magazine, one of the four content-filled booklets included in the weekly Mega Dee Voch Package.