Backyard Tree Planting Program

Human activity has been impacting our climate for generations. While it is well known that trees help mitigate climate change by capturing and storing carbon, the question of which trees do this best is rarely discussed. Does species matter? Are native trees better than non-native trees? Let’s investigate!

Spring is just around the corner, and that means warmer weather, longer days and leafy trees! It’s also the time of year when some people start wondering, “Is there something wrong with my tree?” Of course, the answer to this varies by tree, but here are five common spring tree concerns along with advice on how to tackle challenges.

You might think you know Kentucky coffeetree, honey locust and pawpaw, but are you aware these familiar trees hold a secret dating back to North America’s Ice Age? Their tough or oversized fruits evolved to be eaten and carried by massive mammals that no longer roam our landscapes. Keep reading to explore these lost partnerships and discover how echoes of that ancient world still appear in the trees around us today.

If you're searching for a tree that's both unique and beautiful, consider the tenacious tamarack tree. This often-overlooked native species thrives across the Canadian landscape, offering elegance and ecological benefits throughout the year. Read on to learn more about this one-of-a-kind gem.

Double, double toil and trouble; fire burn and cauldron bubble. Meet the most witchy shrub of them all: the common witchhazel! With its name, flowers, fruit and folkloric roots, this native shrub embodies all things eerie, making it the perfect fall garden addition to celebrate the spooky season.