Jess Wilkin's posts | LEAF | Local Enhancement & Appreciation of Forests

The Importance of Pruning Young Trees

Submitted by Jess Wilkin on September 25, 2020

What comes to mind when you think of pruning? For many people, it’s a topiary shrub clipped into an ornamental shape. Though we often think of pruning as an aesthetic practice, it actually serves a much wider purpose. Each pruning cut has the ability to change the growth pattern of a tree forever; making pruning young trees an essential practice in order to maintain health and encourage a strong structure as they mature.

MythBusters: Debunking Five Common Tree Misconceptions

Submitted by Jess Wilkin on August 26, 2020

Sketch of underground roots stretching out from mature tree

Tree care tips and tricks that spread by word-of-mouth are often accepted as common knowledge over time. However, as theories and tree care practices evolve, new knowledge is not so quick to spread among the general public. As a result, many of today’s common tree misconceptions actually stem from out-dated practices or theories. Because these misconceptions can do more harm than good, it’s important to get to the bottom of the truth.

Benefits of the LEAF Backyard Tree Planting Program

Submitted by Jess Wilkin on June 10, 2020

The LEAF Backyard Tree Planting Program has been helping private property owners plant native trees for more than two decades. Designed so that native trees survive and thrive, the program boasts a number of unique features that benefit both trees and property owners.

Winter Tree Care – How to Choose a Qualified Tree Care Company

Submitted by Jess Wilkin on January 28, 2020

"Winter Tree Care" written over a pruner slicing through a snowy branch

Winter is a great time to prune mature trees because the cooler weather makes them less vulnerable to diseases and infections. Improper pruning can result in serious, long-term damage to your tree and endanger wildlife inhabitants so selecting a qualified and responsible tree care company is essential for ensuring both are well-protected. When choosing a company, you’ll need to be prepared to research, ask questions and identify misleading tactics.

Six Native Species Ideal for Winter Wildlife Habitat

Submitted by Jess Wilkin on December 13, 2019

White spruce in the snow, reads "Creating Winter Habitat"

The urban forest is made up of more than just the trees in our cities. Urban wildlife also share it with us. Some wildlife migrate south for the winter or go into hibernation throughout the cold season, but many birds and mammals do not. The best way to help those which overwinter here is to create and maintain a healthy, thriving and diverse urban forest with enough options for winter habitat. Here are six native species for winter Backyard Biodiversity.