“The planting area of my backyard was previously just dirt and weeds and is now a beautiful bed of flowers and shrubs that is alive with butterflies, bees and birds. I feel good knowing I am contributing positively to a global problem (declining biodiversity and pollinator populations) while also making my yard and home more beautiful.” – Evan
“Absolutely superb! Guided selection, easy and relatively inexpensive purchase, having the planting done and great follow up made for a great experience.” – Patricia
“We were new home owners in the Beaches of Toronto and wanted to add shade and natural beauty to our small backyard. In fact, my wife and I call it our "love tree," and both, our relationship and the tree, are still growing.” – Robbie
Also planted a purple flowering raspberry and meadowsweet
“Our tree is still young (only a few years old) but already we are enjoying the aesthetic that it brings to our property as well as the joy of watching it grow and flourish. Our experience was excellent! The arborist (Brenna) assigned to guide us through the process was extremely knowledgeable and helpful. In particular, we have some members of the family who suffer from seasonal allergies and Brenna was very patient in walking us through options that were allergy friendly.” - Drew
“I planted my trees as a city requirement in return for the removal of three dying trees. The LEAF staff I have dealt with have been knowledgeable, courteous, prompt and hard working without exception. My new trees will enhance the visual appearance/attractiveness of my back garden and this effect will be enhanced as they grow.” – Colin
“I see trees and shrubs as longer-term investments in the garden. A variety of trees and shrubs ensures that there is almost always something interesting going on in the garden, and even if one is busy and distracted, one cannot fail to notice some of the activities of a tree or a shrub.” – Helen
Also planted an eastern redbud and a selection of shrubs
“I always wanted to have a resilient garden and wanted my Backyard Babies to thrive without constant attention. The hackberry is a beautiful and strong tree that has grown immensely and quickly provided much-needed shade for our deck and privacy from the neighbours. The shrubs attract so many birds into our yard!” – Irina
"My family enjoys the tree. My grandson lives in Japan, visits once year, and always remarks on how the tree has grown. And he loves watering it! I recommend LEAF to anyone who’s interested in purchasing a tree or shrub. If only my backyard were bigger, I’d be a regular customer!" - Lorraine
"As new homeowners, my partner and I hope to grow alongside our newly planted tree. To us, it marks a new beginning. I wanted a tree that would provide much-needed relief from the sun in our backyard. Our new swamp oak will help us tremendously with this. I love that I can share this tree with our backyard wildlife!" - Sudipto
“The Freeman was the right fit for our yard given its size, it is drought and pest resistant and we really wanted a maple. We have loved the shade it has provided in the summer. Its name is Majestic, named for its fast growth and height; it protects us from the sun, and can hold its own! It was planted when we were in the emergency room so it was a nice present to come home to. Our 11-month-old daughter loves touching the leaves. We would like to press a nice red leaf in a book. LEAF was phenomenal, and I cannot say that enough! I don’t understand why more people don’t take advantage of the program?! They are responsive and the follow-ups are a great perk because it’s always good to know how well the tree is doing.” – Bob and Marlene
“We call our tree The White Pillars – it supports a canopy of shade in our backyard. We think paper birch trees are very graceful, elegant looking trees, and it gives the dappled shade that we were looking for. It makes us think of Group of Seven paintings, quintessentially Canadian. Our whole family enjoys this tree – we had LEAF plant it the summer our son was born, which lets us track how old it is. They’ve both grown so much! The planting went smoothly, and the check-ins have been helpful to reassure us that the tree is in good health and well pruned.” – Beatrix
“We used to not be able to sit in our sun room because it would get too hot, but we enjoy it very much now because our tree provides so much shade. We chose it because it is fast-growing and to provide shade and privacy, and it has done a beautiful job. LEAF has an excellent program and we are impressed with both the products and services.” – Carol
"We wanted a combination of plants that worked well together, and we’ve loved the different colours that appear throughout the year. The plants from LEAF beautify our lawn and attract family, neighbours, and bees alike (we’ve never been stung)! The experience was fabulous – the kit came right to our door, and had everything we need!" – Karen
"We’re an outdoorsy family, and loved that LEAF has provided us with an opportunity to start teaching our young son about native plants and their role in keeping our city green and healthy. The red osier dogwood has so many lovely features: beautiful red branches that will add colour to our yard in the winter, lovely leaves and pretty white flowers come spring. It’s truly an all-seasons shrub." – Karolina
"I planted two native trees that have been thriving and growing well. They give me exactly what I wanted - privacy, shade and natural beauty. After a long day at work, I walk around my garden and trees and feel instantly relaxed." - Anna
“My experience with LEAF was great! Everyone was so helpful and friendly, from ordering the garden kits to getting delivery of the plants. The plants were healthy, everything was well-labeled, and good planting and care information was provided. I look forward to watching the plants flourish and attract bees and birds.” - Carolyn
Tree bought from LEAF through the York Region Tree Sale
Aurora, York Region
“We moved into a brand new subdivision where many trees had been removed. Returning the native species to the area that were removed our subdivision was important to us.” – Krystyna and Peter
"My son, who was 6’5” when the tree arrived, was shocked that the tree outgrew him. Now he is 23 years old and wants to climb it! If I had to name it I would call the tree Shaquille O'Neal because it grew so big and healthy. LEAF has been awesome -- fast service and great people." – Janet
Tree bought from LEAF through the York Region Tree Sale
Georgina, York Region
“I planted a bur oak because they are hardy, easy to grow and look nice. I think LEAF staff was very positive and helpful, answering emails very promptly.” – Grace
Also planted Freeman maple and swamp white oak trees
Georgina, York Region
“Planting with LEAF was great! I knew nothing about gardening before and now love it. I planted to replace existing cherry trees that died due to black knot. My new trees will provide wildlife habitat, improve my yard’s aesthetics and provide shade.” – Lisa
“I planted with LEAF to re-establish native plants and have my yard complement the forest behind it. I thought working with LEAF was excellent. They will plant and follow up – what a deal!” – Lynn
“I chose to plant my tamarack in anticipation of having to replace ash trees when they die. My tree adds so much beauty to my yard. Overall, my experience planting with LEAF was fantastic! I’m very impressed with their follow up program.” – Paul
Also planted: basswood, white swamp oak, and a selection of garden kits.
Georgina, York Region
"I like the fact that all the trees, shrubs and the garden kits are native. They are supposed to grow here and, as a result, everything has thrived. My family and I enjoy them almost as much as all the birds (Cardinals, Chickadees, American Goldfinch, Orioles, Purple Finch, Blue Jays, Mourning Doves, Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, Hummingbirds) butterflies and bees do! Working with the staff at LEAF has really helped me learn how to plant a landscape that is native; to support birds and the enhancement and maintenance of pollinators as my small contribution to helping save our environment for future generations." - Catherine
“My experience with LEAF has been terrific. The arborist who visited us in the spring was knowledgeable and educated me on everything you need to know about a variety of trees and shrubs- this was encouraging and gave me an entry point into putting our yard together. My first child was born this year and I wanted to plant a tree for him and see it grow alongside him!” – Angelica
"I chose a basswood because the arborist said it could grow in my clay soil. I like the broad heart-shaped leaves, but I’m looking forward to the flowers, as I have noticed a decrease in bees in the area. The flowers will attract bees and butterflies to pollinate my garden vegetables." - Nadia
"We didn’t have any trees or shrubs previously, so we took the advice of LEAF as to what mixture of plants would be suitable for our soil – which paid off! Each tree and shrub serves a different purpose – adding shade, covering a lamp post, and providing privacy, among others. We love spending time as a family in the yard now, and our success with the trees inspired us to start a vegetable garden." – Abby
"I planted a Freeman maple in October 2013, and after the terrible ice storm that December, it was bent at almost 90 degrees from the center of its trunk. I took a couple of photos and sent them to LEAF, asking what could be done to save it. An arborist from LEAF said that the tree looked healthy in the photo, and that they would come to stake it in spring to straighten it. When the arborists arrived, I was amazed at their professionalism and the way they straightened the tree. They asked me to remove the stakes after one year. When I removed the stakes as directed, the tree not only became straight, but grew into a very healthy and robust tree. Watching and observing the changes and growth of this maple tree gives my family constant joy and pleasure, and encourages us to spend time in our backyard! Needless to say I'm extremely satisfied and happy, and I recommend LEAF to all my friends, neighbours, and colleagues." – Mukib
“I had always wanted a tree in my backyard, and now I enjoy the red colour in the fall and listening to the leaves blowing in the wind. My family and I really enjoy the tree; it brings us closer to nature and the outdoors. When I first bought my house I knew nothing about gardening or trees, so when I heard about LEAF, it became possible for my dream of a tree to come true. It is so simple, and people take trees for granted, but when you are new to Canada, you don’t take anything for granted. I would have never gone out and bought a tree to plant myself so LEAF made all the difference! ” – Rebecca
“What I like best about my tree is its strength in form and vigorous growth; the beautiful winter scene it makes with snow collecting on its branches, and the changing color of its needles from bright green to whitish green throughout the year. I have already given it a name called “Jade,” for the waxy coating of its needles that makes it look like a piece of jade. In Chinese literature, jade is symbolic of being virtuous.” – Sina
“Our silver maple is special because it marks the beginning of our lives at our new home! We had to replace a dead ash tree shortly after moving in – we wanted something hardy and fast growing, and we’ve been amazed at how quickly our silver maple grew, providing some much needed shade and privacy. LEAF offered us excellent service and communication – the follow up is particularly great.” – Warren
Tree bought from LEAF through the York Region Tree Sale
Newmarket, York Region
“I planted a new tree because my yard was empty after construction and I wanted to fill it. I chose a basswood because of the shade it will give and to add more colour to my yard.” – Adam
“I planted the tree for the dappled shade and the shrubs to attract birds and insects. The plants are healthy and the follow-up visit is appreciated!” – Donna
“The unique shrub garden in my front yard has increased curb appeal. In addition, the serviceberry attracts birds, which is a pleasure to watch. I have had support from LEAF from planning my garden to maintenance and beyond. No other “garden centre” would consider following up 18 months after planting to ensure the health of our shrubs.” – Nadine
"I chose a Freeman maple as it is a medium sized tree with foliage that will provide privacy in our backyard. I am looking forward to the beautiful fall colours it will have! Our family is looking forward to seeing our tree mature and grow since it will eventually be a more dominant figure in our backyard. I hope this tree will be here for others to enjoy tens of years into the future!" - Mark
"Freida the Freeman was just the size of a broom handle when she was planted, and she’s growing well! We love the dappled sunlight that comes through her big leaves, and her gorgeous fall colour. She’s just beautiful! LEAF was great throughout – 10/10!" – Suzanne
“We planted a tree for privacy purposes. I like the impact the Freeman maple has on my garden – it’s the nicest feature! LEAF’s service was amazing, from consultation to planting!” – Sara
"I named our trees after my children – the Freeman maple is Stephanie, and the grey dogwood is Jordan. I talk to them every day, and get great pleasure from seeing them grow. With current health problems, it’s nice for my husband to come out and hear the wind in the trees – it’s very therapeutic." – Shelley
"We knew going in that we wanted to add shade and attract birds to our backyard. LEAF suggested the ironwood, and we like the shade and the flowers. We enjoy ‘Gentle Jim’, and the finches, blue jays, and cardinals it attracts, every time we are on the deck, and look forward to it growing bigger." – Alex
“Several years ago, the ice-storm did a lot of damage to our trees. I appreciate that LEAF has do-it-yourself programs and supporting resources. We planted the entire forest edge with native trees and shrubs from LEAF. Dogwoods were primarily planted in the swampy area, and they have flourished. The serviceberry and elderberry shrubs are over 6’ tall now too. It’s great to see how the area has visually improved, but also how it’s now a more diverse habitat, rather than the mono-culture of Manitoba Maples and Buckthorns that used to be there.” – Ben
Also planted a Kentucky coffeetree, red osier dogwood, highbush cranberry and fragrant sumac in Fall 2011
Vaughan, York Region
"Our dog really likes to sit and enjoy the shade under the Freeman maple – it’s his new favourite spot! There were no trees when we moved in, and our trees and shrubs from LEAF have really helped to green the yard. The program is excellent, and we’ve told others how impressed we are with the health of our plants from LEAF." – Amy
Also planted three shrubs in spring 2012, a sycamore in fall 2015, four shrubs in fall 2016, and a Kentucky coffeetree in fall 2017
Whitchurch-Stouffville, York Region
"Recently, we gained crickets! Hearing them chirp outside my bedroom at night is so peaceful. We also had nesting robins, butterfly caterpillars, and more varieties of bees than I knew existed. All since our tree and native plant gardens came in. Adding native plants and trees is truly transformative. If you plant it, nature has a way of finding it." – Laura
“I am very happy with my LEAF experience. The representatives were attentive, knowledgeable and helpful in providing guidance in the planning process. I am grateful for their suggestions on where to plant the LEAF trees, how to choose an appropriate tree replacement of our ash tree (removed by the Town), and the planting experience.” – David
"I will plant it in honour of my late husband. For the last year of his life, he was in a wheelchair and enjoyed the oasis of the backyard. I am thinking of getting a plaque to put by the tree." - Wendy
"This tree has special significance for me, because it is the 10,001st tree I am planting! I chose a sugar maple for my street (Maple Avenue), and look forward to its fall colour." – Peggy
