Blogs | LEAF | Local Enhancement & Appreciation of Forests

Planting Trees for a Healthy Planet

Submitted by Mikayla Richards on January 20, 2021

Swamp white oak, Ohio buckeye and paper birch in a backyard

Like many parents, Cheryl Gula is passionate about ensuring there is a healthy planet for her son as he grows up. This Urban Forest Champion is doing her part to make sure that happens by using the available space on her Markham property to plant trees. Her backyard trees will not only benefit her son, but the winder community for generations to come!

Spot Four Native Deciduous Trees This Winter

Submitted by Jess Wilkin on January 11, 2021

It can be tricky to identify deciduous trees after their leaves drop. However, winter presents a great opportunity to learn about other tree features, like buds or bark, to identify your neighbourhood trees. Practice makes perfect, so get out this season and enhance your Winter ID skills with these tips!

Inspiring Reflections from our Planting Crews!

Submitted by Brenna Anstett on January 06, 2021

A person watering a pin cherry tree in a backyard

The New Year has just begun and we’re busy preparing for our spring 2021 tree planting season! As we look ahead, I find myself reflecting on last year’s accomplishments. Despite having to postpone our spring season as a result of COVID-19 restrictions, we still managed to plant 1,176 native trees and shrubs on private property. Furthermore, we successfully expanded into parts of Durham Region, making it our busiest and most rewarding planting season yet!

Stewardship, Education and Volunteering in an Uncertain Year

Submitted by Brian Millward on January 04, 2021

six people celebrating surrounded by young recently planted trees

Throughout 2020, our Community Programs team was tasked with adapting many of our programs and events to follow ever-evolving public health guidelines. Despite the many changes, we were able to continue to engage volunteers and community members with fun and informative programs aimed at protecting and enhancing the urban forest. Here are some of the year’s accomplishments.

Plant Native Species for Backyard Biodiversity

Submitted by Daniela Serodio on December 21, 2020

Periwinkle and wild geranium, reads "Native Alternative to Invasive Species"

Did you know that the plant choices we make in our gardens can impact the urban forest and the wildlife that call it home? Non-native, invasive species continue to be popular garden choices and are widely available for purchase. Unfortunately, these species can escape our yards and wreak havoc in natural areas! The good news is that there are many beautiful native species that can be planted in their stead that have similar characteristics and only positive consequences for nature!