Preserving Mature Native Tree Canopy
Quercus alba, White Oak.
It is important to plant new trees, and to preserve the ones that we already have.
A mature tree has incomparably greater benefits than a sapling - far more stormwater capture, carbon sequestration, cooling, etc.
But Virginia Trees, especially in urban and some suburban areas, are under constant threat from numerous directions, including strangling vines, development, pollution and lack of basic tree care.
PROTECT TREES AGAINST ACCIDENTAL DAMAGE
Don’t let mulch touch the base of your tree. Building up mulch against a tree causes the bark to rot.
Avoid soil compaction, such as from from cars or heavy machinery
Don’t use a string trimmer or a lawn mower near a tree. Protect it with a ring of native groundcover plants or a thin layer of organic mulch. As much as possible, leave fallen leaves under the tree to protect the roots and provide homes for fireflies.
DON’T CUT DOWN HEALTHY TREES
Worried that your tree might fall on your house? Consult a certified independent arborist (one who does not sell tree services, known as a Consulting Arborist in the industry) who can assess the risk. An every two year visit is wise.
Tired of raking? Just don’t rake! The fallen leaves belong under the tree, where they provide habitat for fireflies and where they nourish the soil as they break down.
Doing construction? Future owners will be grateful for the shade provided by mature trees.
RESCUE TREES ON YOUR PROPERTY FROM INVASIVE VINES
See the invasives vine chart to learn to recognize them and distinguish them from the beneficial native ones
Take action to control the invasive vines
Be inspired by these stories of special trees embedded in our communities and rooted in our history. Remarkable Trees of Virginia, by Jeffrey Lynn Kirwan and Nancy Ross Hugo.
Download the new Celebrate Virginia Native Trees (and shrubs!) brochure and share everywhere!
