(February 22, 2017) This spring, LEAF, with the support of The Regional Municipality of York, is encouraging all residents to plant native trees and shrubs in their yard to support native pollinators.
Pollinators play a crucial role, helping plants to reproduce and thrive. According to the United Nation’s Convention on Biological Diversity, pollinators are crucial to the survival of 90% of wild plants and 30% of the world’s crops. “Planting a variety of tree and shrub species that bloom at various times can provide pollinators the food and habitat they need throughout the growing season” says Janet McKay, Executive Director of LEAF.
In addition to supporting pollinators, trees and other plants provide many benefits to residents, including reduced energy costs, increased property value, privacy, removal of harmful pollutants from the air and reduced storm water runoff. Native trees and shrubs have the added bonus of being beautiful and low maintenance.
The Region encourages residents to love their yards by working in partnership with LEAF who offer practical assistance to property owners at an affordable price. LEAF’s Full Service Backyard Tree Planting Program offers many species of trees that provide excellent pollinator habitat such as basswood, honey locust, serviceberry and many more.
“We make it easy and that’s what people love most about our program” says McKay. “Everyone is busy – most people don’t have the time to research what to plant and where to buy it. We come right to you . . . in your own yard!”
LEAF helps ensure that trees planted have the best possible chance to thrive by providing residents with:
- 30 minute backyard consultation with a LEAF arborist to choose appropriate species and locations
- 5 to 8 foot tall native tree (2 to 4 foot evergreens)
- full planting service
- printed tree care guide
- follow up tree care advise by email/phone
To learn more visit www.yourleaf.org or call 1-888-453-6504
Interviews available upon request.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Janet McKay
Executive Director
416-413-9244 x17 (office) 647-883-5777 (cell)
janet [at] yourleaf.org
Jillaine Yee
Communications and Fundraising Coordinator
416-413-9244 x14 (office)
jillaine [at] yourleaf.org
LEAF is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the protection and improvement of the urban forest and engages citizens in urban forest stewardship through planting, education and training. Learn more at www.yourleaf.org
York Region’s Greening Strategy encourages and supports stewardship and environmental enhancement on private land to protect and enhance natural heritage for present and future generations.
