July 15, 2025
Jess Wilkin
Tags: Invasive Species
It’s that time of year again when uninvited Japanese beetles make their appearance. Learn how to spot this invasive beetle in your neighbourhood and discover the recommended management techniques for reducing their impact on your trees, shrubs and other plants this summer.
July 07, 2025
Joel S.
In her latest book, The Serviceberry: Abundance and Reciprocity in the Natural World, author Robin Wall Kimmerer draws inspiration from the natural world and the serviceberry to imagine a future rooted in gift-giving, reciprocity and mutual care. Read on to learn more about her message and how you can help shape a sustainable future by planting a serviceberry tree.
July 02, 2025
Jess Wilkin
Our spring 2025 planting season is officially over, and we have some fun highlights to share! Read on to see what we accomplished this spring and find out how you can take part in our upcoming fall planting season.
July 02, 2025
Justin Lewis
Tags: Backyard Biodiversity
High above the ground, beyond what we can easily see, there’s an entire ecosystem teeming with life. The canopies of Ontario’s native trees are more than just a collection of leaves and branches – they’re bustling neighborhoods where birds build their homes, mammals take shelter and insects thrive. While we may admire trees for their shade and beauty, their canopies hold hidden wonders that help keep our urban forests healthy and full of life.
June 04, 2025
Joel S.
Soil plays a critical role in the health of all terrestrial ecosystems and is essential for supporting the growth of trees and shrubs. Planting trees and shrubs suited to your soil type helps them thrive into maturity and deliver lasting benefits. Read on to learn why soil matters, how to identify the soil type in your yard and tips for improving disturbed soil.
May 20, 2025
Jon Curtis
Tags: Backyard Biodiversity
Garden pests often give insects a bad name, but many species are actually nature's little helpers. Embracing beneficial insects in your garden can support a healthy, biodiverse outdoor space. Read on to learn about four beneficial insects, how they help your garden and four tips for attracting them.
May 05, 2025
Amba P
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.
May 05, 2025
Amba P
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.
May 05, 2025
Jessie Cripton
Meet Alexis, a Toronto Community Housing Corporation (TCHC) Community Services Coordinator (CSC) who’s passionate about helping tenants achieve their personal and community goals. A self-described “people person”, Alexis got involved with LEAF after hearing from tenants who expressed a desire for more greenery in their neighbourhood. We caught up with Alexis to learn how other TCHC tenants and staff can beautify their community through tree planting and stewardship!
April 23, 2025
Janet McKay
Tags: Urban Forest Champion
LEAF is excited to welcome milen melles to our Board of Directors! In this blog, our Executive Director, Janet McKay, interviews milen about their experience and motivation for becoming a LEAF Board Member.