Bicoloured Agapostemon (Agapostemon virescens) on yellow flower
May 10, 2022
Brian Millward
Tags: Tree Tour
Our goal at LEAF is to teach people about the value of the urban forest. Remember, it’s not just humans who benefit from trees in our cities, but also a wide variety of urban wildlife – including bees! We hosted a virtual event to explore bee-friendly trees in Richmond Hill and steps we can take to support local pollinators. Here are some of the most buzz-worthy takeaways from our event.
Jon watering newly planted maple tree
April 25, 2022
Jon Curtis
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a LEAF tree planter? My first planting season with LEAF was full of all sorts of lessons, laughs and, of course, lots of native species! Follow along as I take you through a day in the life of a tree planter.
Female spongy moth
March 28, 2022
Jess Wilkin
Spongy moth has become an unwelcome guest throughout southern Ontario. Native to Europe and Asia, this invasive moth may be more recognizable by its former names, the gypsy moth or LDD (short for Lymantria dispar dispar). In 2021, we saw a spike in the spongy moth population and with it, extensive tree defoliation in certain areas. While this non-native pest may be here to stay, here’s how you can do your part to identify it and help reduce its impact.
improer vs proer staking
March 27, 2022
Brenna Anstett
Staking a young tree after planting has been a long-standing practice aimed at providing additional support and protection for the tree while it establishes. Contrary to this popular believe, however, many trees are often staked unnecessarily and incorrectly.
Tulip tree flower
March 26, 2022
Jon Curtis
When looking for a tree to make a statement in your yard, look no further than the mighty tulip tree (Liriodendron tulipifera). Highly regarded as one of the tallest growing hardwood trees in eastern North America, this tree also displays unique leaves and distinctive tulip-shaped flowers.
Serviceberry flower
March 22, 2022
Meandra Provencal
When planting to support pollinators, we often think of flowering perennials and annuals, but trees and shrubs produce an abundance of flowers which provide a wonderful source of food! Here are four native species that are among the first to bloom in the spring, offering a much-needed early season snack for local birds, bees, butterflies and more.
March 17, 2022
Lam Tran
For Mary, the Young Urban Forest Leaders (YUFL) program was an opportunity to realign herself with the environmental field before she began a Master’s program. Participating in the YUFL program challenged her to go beyond her comfort zone and revealed an unexpected passion for community engagement and outreach. Learn more about Mary’s experience in the program and how it has shaped her career.
Bryony picking fruit from a tree
March 08, 2022
Lam Tran
COVID-19 brought a lot of changes to Bryony’s life that she never could have imaged. After reflecting on the waste generated by the pandemic, she was motivated to deepen her passion for healing the environment. Discover how the Young Urban Forest Leaders (YUFL) Program empowered Bryony to pursue her goals and propel her to where she is now.
Larissa benthos sampling
February 18, 2022
Lam Tran
As the school year wrapped up, Larissa wanted to spend the spring and summer of 2021 expanding her knowledge, while engaging with her community. Upon learning about the Young Urban Forest Leaders (YUFL) Program, she was thrilled at the opportunities the program provided. In this blog, Larissa shares how the program has spurred on her passion.
Adriana with watering cans next to newly planted tree
February 09, 2022
Meandra Provencal
Are you looking to plant native species for less? We help property owners in the City of Toronto, York Region and several municipalities in Durham Region plant native trees and shrubs at a subsidized rate. From tree selection to spacing requirements, we’ve heard your questions and we have the answers!

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