Danielle holding silver maple leaf
June 28, 2021
Guest Blogger
Throughout May and early June, LEAF staff members were busy bees naturalizing public lands in the City of Richmond Hill. As a first-time tree planter, I was amazed that we were able to plant over 700 native trees and shrubs in just seven days! As I reflect back on the planting days, every day was unique and offered new learning opportunities for me. Here are three lessons I learned as a first-time tree planter!
Eastern redbud leaf damaged by leafcutter bee
June 14, 2021
Adriana Rezai-S...
Caring for your trees and shrubs by providing them with regular water and nutrients is the key to ensuring they live long, healthy lives. While this is true, there are some other external factors that can impact your tree/shrub’s health, such as climate, damage, disease and of course, pests.
Two large tulip trees planted in a backyard
June 10, 2021
Brenna Anstett
Thinking of planting a tree on your property? Planting trees is an excellent way to enhance your outdoor space. Trees also offer a number of wonderful benefits such as shade, privacy, wildlife food and habitat, increased property values and more. However, in order to maximize these benefits to their fullest, it is important to ensure you are planting your new tree in the right place!
Danielle sitting among newly planted native trees
June 05, 2021
Guest Blogger
LEAF held three planting days in King Township during May. Due to COVID-19, we decided to limit the number of planters to a small group. Our small but mighty group went above and beyond, planting over 300 native trees and shrubs in Kettle Lake Park.
Pagoda dogwood leaves, flowers and berries collage
June 02, 2021
Brenna Anstett
The pagoda dogwood (Cornus alternifolia), is a smaller growing species that is often planted as an ornamental or centrepiece in many gardens. It is aptly named for its layered, horizontal branching which often resembles a pagoda (a tower-like, tiered structure). The pagoda dogwood is a beautiful native understory species that can be readily found in many forests across eastern North America.
Tooba Shakeel
June 01, 2021
Janet McKay
Tooba Shakeel has recently joined the LEAF Board of Directors. In this blog, our Executive Director, Janet McKay interviews Tooba about her experience and her motivation for becoming a LEAF Board member.
Diversity of trees, shrubs and perennials along a street
May 21, 2021
Adriana Rezai-S...
Transforming our urban forests into landscapes with various tree species is in our best interest as diversity helps make our cities more livable. Planting a variety of trees can improve wildlife habitat, help build resiliency and support various benefits that nature provides to humans.
LEAF's "Native Plants at Work!" sign
May 19, 2021
Brian Millward
Does your nearby subway station host an Urban Forest Demonstration Garden? If so, look for our new signs! LEAF and our volunteer Garden Stewards plant and care for small gardens outside five subway stations. These native plant gardens showcase the beauty and importance of green spaces within an urban environment and are open for anyone to visit – local community members and passing commuters alike!
Sketch of a tree with roots extending widely underground
May 01, 2021
Jess Wilkin
A common myth about urban trees is that they cause damage to pipes and foundations. Roots can’t break through intact foundations or pipes. However, they can be attracted to areas where cracks in pipes or foundations offer the resources that trees are seeking, namely water and oxygen. There are two ways to greatly reduce this risk – ensure your property is in good repair and plant the right trees in the right locations.
Three photos, each with a young woman next to a recently planted tree
April 13, 2021
Mikayla Richards
Ever wonder who the superheroes are behind our residential tree planting programs? From helping homeowners select the right trees and planting locations for their properties to scheduling our long field days, they’re growing our urban forest one tree at a time!

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