by Cheryl Harrison, Master Gardener

Today is Earth Day!  Earth day began in 1970 in the USA by Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson. Senator Nelson organized a countrywide demonstration to highlight environmental issues. In 1990, Earth Day was recognized worldwide including in Canada. On April 22nd each year, we honour the achievements of the environmental movement. 

There are lots of ways to celebrate Earth Day! One of my favourites is to plant a tree. 

The Oaks (Quercus sp.), Birches (Betula sp.) and Maples (Acer sp.) are amongst the native trees that encourage the most biodiversity in our zone 5 plant hardiness area. And like all trees, they contribute to carbon sequestration in the soil, improve air quality with the release of oxygen and the filtering of pollutants and a mature tree’s canopy can help to shade us and keep us cool in summer. 

There are 9 species of Oak trees native to Ontario and 1 native to British Columbia. Oaks are ecologically important with their support of a wide range of mammals, insects and birds. Oak acorns serve as a vital food source.  We love their majestic appearance and beautiful fall colour. 

The red (Q. rubra) and the white oaks (Q. alba) are large trees that need lots of room to grow.  There are smaller oaks.  The Chinquapin oak (Q. muehlenbergii) may be grown as a large shrub or a small tree.  For more information, click Oaks.

There are 7 species of Birch trees native to Ontario.  Birch trees support wildlife including moths and butterflies, other insects, birds and small mammals. There are 3 that sport that beautiful exfoliating bark.  They are paper birch (B. papyrifera), yellow birch (B. alleghaniensis) and river birch (B. nigra).   For more information, click Birches.

There are 7 species of native Maple trees commonly found in Ontario.  Maple trees provide homes for insects , seeds for food and nesting sites for birds and small rodents.  Some species make great understory trees for a layered look in your garden that also provides a more natural habitat.  Some are used as stately specimen trees that provide shade and gorgeous fall colour.

Both Sugar maple (A. saccharum) and red maples (A. rubrum)  grow into large specimen trees.  The sugar maple has a particularly striking fall foliage.  If it is a smaller maple that you need, try moosewood/striped maple (A. pennsylvannicum).  For more information, click Maples.

When planting any tree, it is important to select an appropriate location and species, to use good planting techniques and cultural practices that will help to maintain a healthy tree. For more information, click planting trees. 

Trees are our gifts for the future.  Celebrate Earth Day!