Backyard Tree Planting Program

Did you know your backyard could hold the key to a greener, healthier Markham? Through the City of Markham’s partnership with LEAF, property owners can access additional discounts to grow their own piece of the urban forest – making tree planting more affordable and impactful than ever.

Designing a garden with native plants doesn’t have to mean choosing between ecology and beauty. With a few foundational garden design principles, you can create a space that supports wildlife while feeling cohesive, inviting and distinctly your own. Whether you’re planting a pollinator patch or reimagining your whole yard, good design can help guide the eye, offer structure, and even bring a touch of whimsy—creating a garden that feels good and functions well.

LEAF has launched new themed shrub bundles, just in time for spring! With more themes and species flexibility than ever, you can customize your bundle to your heart’s content, while getting a discount on our already subsidized native shrubs! Read on for more info about LEAF’s new themed shrub bundles.

Anton Wolek, a LEAF client for nearly nine years, attended our Summer Garden Party for the first time in 2024. There, he was surprised to learn that only one member of our Residential Planting Programs team had ever tasted the elusive and delicious fruit of the pawpaw (Asimina triloba) tree, a native species LEAF offers. Inspired to share his own pawpaw harvest, Anton invited us to experience this unique treat and reflect on his journey as a longtime LEAF client. Read on to discover Anton’s story, his pawpaw harvest and how he’s contributed to growing the urban forest.

Meet our Residential Planting Programs (RPP) team! During the planting season, we work with private property owners through the Backyard Tree Planting Program (BYTP) to grow the urban forest by helping them get the right native tree for the right place with the right care. Winter brings a welcome pause after the busy season, but a connection to nature doesn’t end when the planting stops. Read on to discover ways we stay inspired during the colder months. Whether through outdoor adventures, quiet reflections or creative pursuits, winter offers us a chance to recharge.