RPP planting team measuring spacing of planting location for a red maple
July 24, 2024
Joel S.
Trees need space to grow into maturity so that we can enjoy their benefits. However, the urban environment presents frequent obstacles for a growing tree. Find out how LEAF’s spacing requirements for backyard tree planting ensure that the trees we plant not only survive but thrive in harmony with their surrounding landscape long-term!
Thomas Sinclair presenting his mural at the Bathurst Station Urban Forest Demonstration Garden
June 26, 2024
Sarah Halonen
This spring, LEAF, Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), and the Canadian Healthy Communities Initiative (CHCI) held a special ceremony to unveil a stunning new art installation by Ojibway Woodland artist Thomas Sinclair at the LEAF Urban Demonstration Garden at Bathurst Station. Read on to discover what this mural means to Thomas and the powerful message of healing and hope it brings to the community.
LEAF Staff posing with a newly planted sugar maple tree
June 26, 2024
Jess Wilkin
Climate change predictions for York Region forecast a future with more rainfall, which will stress our existing stormwater management networks and put homes and properties at risk of flood damage. A partnership between the Town of Newmarket, the Regional Municipality of York and LEAF aims to reduce stormwater runoff by helping Newmarket property owners plant trees for less.
view looking up at a woodland tree canopy
June 10, 2024
Justin Lewis
Canada is often associated with vast forests and abundant natural landscapes. Despite having a wealth of trees in general, certain areas like Southern Ontario are facing a significant decline in forested areas. Since the 1800s, Southern Ontario has lost a substantial amount of forest habitat. This loss has had profound implications for both the environment and the communities that reside there.
Newly planted tree in a Neighbourhood Improvement Area
May 29, 2024
Jon Curtis
If you were to map the distribution of canopy coverage across Toronto’s neighbourhoods, you would find that it is not at all random. Some neighbourhoods have a disproportionately lower canopy cover than others. Why is this the case?
bees visiting common ninebark flowers
May 29, 2024
Justin Lewis
In our previous blogs, we explored tree and shrub species that support bees in early and mid spring. As spring turns to summer, native trees and shrubs continue to provide food for our native bees. In this blog, we will explore four of the best late-spring blooming native trees and shrubs. Keep reading to find out why bees love trees!
Mining bee on black chokeberry
May 15, 2024
Justin Lewis
In our previous blog, we explored four tree and shrub species that support bees in early spring. As spring advances and pollinator gardens burst into bloom, it's important not to overlook the ongoing significance of native trees and shrubs in the bee lifecycle. In this blog, we will explore four of the finest mid-spring blooming native trees and shrubs. Keep reading to find out why bees love trees!
male cellophane bee on red maple flowers
April 29, 2024
Justin Lewis
When considering the essentials for supporting bees, our minds often turn to vibrant pollinator gardens. However, it might surprise you to learn that bees depend on native trees as well. While trees help humans by offering shade, privacy, and aesthetic appeal, trees also play a crucial role in providing much-needed spring food and shelter for these vital pollinators.
sprinkler spraying water on grass and tree trunk
March 29, 2024
Jess Wilkin
Tags: Tree Care
Sprinklers are a familiar sight on lawns and in gardens, but did you know that they have the potential to negatively impact trees by causing stress? Discover how watering with sprinklers can impact your tree and learn the key to properly watering in our newest blog.
Beneath the cracked bark, the fruity-smelling, grey, white or black fungal mats can be found
March 20, 2024
Jess Wilkin
Oak trees fulfill significant ecological and cultural roles in our urban forest but in 2023, our mighty oaks came face-to-face with a new threat: oak wilt. Check out our top questions and answers about oak wilt and learn what you can do to help prevent the spread of this invasive pest.

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