Backyard Tree Planting Program

Sprinklers: What’s Good for the Grass is Not Always Good for the Trees.

sprinkler spraying water on grass and tree trunk
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.

What You need to Know About Oak Wilt, The Invasive Fungus Threatening Our Oak Trees

Beneath the cracked bark, the fruity-smelling, grey, white or black fungal mats can be found
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.

Fluttering Delights: Four Native Shrubs To Turn Your Garden into a Butterfly Haven!

adult Mourning Cloak butterfly
Enter a world of vibrant wings gracefully dancing amid the blossoms, turning your garden into a whimsical paradise where butterflies paint the air with their enchanting colours. If this imagery speaks to you, LEAF is here to help with your garden metamorphosis! Read on to find out more about our four favourite native shrubs that beckon to butterflies and discover the delights they can add to your yard!

Enhancing Biodiversity With Soft Landings

native flower garden with a honey locust tree in the background
Do you dream of transforming your backyard into a biodiverse paradise where wildlife flourishes? If you have native trees and shrubs, or are considering planting some, you can enhance their ability to offer habitat by creating soft landings—diverse native plantings beneath the native trees. Read on to discover how soft landings can beautify your space while supporting a vibrant ecosystem right in your own backyard!

Embracing the Pawpaw: A Profile of Ontario’s “Tropical” Hidden Gem

A cluster of A cluster of pawpaw fruit.
Ever wanted to add a rare native tree to your yard that combines aesthetic charm and food production? Dive into the captivating culinary delight and cultural significance of native pawpaw trees! With their tropical-looking leaves and distinctive fruit, this member of the custard apple family (Annonaceae) is a true hidden gem. While pawpaws have a rich history of cultivation by First Nations communities, they’re gaining popularity among local farmers and home gardeners too, and for good reason! Read on to learn all about this delicious culinary gem that will delight your taste buds and leave you craving more.