Here are our answers to the top five questions we receive about the Backyard Tree Planting Program:
Here are our answers to the top five questions we receive about the Backyard Tree Planting Program:
I had the chance to connect with Chris about his experience with LEAF and his decision to help grow the urban forest. I’m excited to share what he had to say!
How did you first become interested in the urban forest?
Meet Our Volunteers:
Native species are those that are indigenous to (or have grown naturally in) southern Ontario as a result of natural evolution, rather than those that have been introduced by humans from other regions. Though there are many wonderful non-native species, we love native species because they’re well adapted to our climatic condition, provide wildlife habitat and typically require less care, once established. Plus, planting native is a great way to preserve the diversity of our urban forest!
Here are a few favourites from our Planting Team:
Due to its importance, the number of naturally occurring white pine trees that once covered much of the central and eastern parts of Canada has significantly declined. Extensive logging operations throughout the 18th and 19th centuries to produce durable, knot-free wood products such doors, panelling, cabinets, furniture and ship masts sadly led to a loss of many old-growth white pine forest stands.
The practice of using nature as a way to cultivate healing and promote mental and physical well-being is not new – it has played a role in people’s lives since ancient times. In the western part of the world, we coin this therapeutic practice in many ways, including (but not limited to) nature therapy, ecotherapy, green therapy and horticultural therapy.
In the winter, many trees and shrubs have very subtle identification clues, while others can have quite distinct features. Be sure to look for both the obvious and not-so-obvious clues such as bark, buds, fruit and growth form (overall shape).
Here are some clues to help identify four stand-out trees and shrubs this winter:
1. Common Witchhazel (Hamamelis virginiana)
I had the chance to connect with Rema about her experience with LEAF and her decision to help grow the urban forest. I’m excited to share what she had to say!
How did you first become interested in the urban forest?