The Benefits of Planting Native Trees

Trees provide benefits for people and animals in many different ways. These benefits fall under several different categories: ecological, economical and social. However, native species of trees provide benefits above and beyond those of non-native species.

Why Plant Trees?

Ecologically, trees perform many functions that help people and animals. Trees absorb airborne pollutants such as carbon dioxide, ozone, carbon monoxide and sulfur dioxide. Trees also trap airborne dust particles. One large tree can produce enough oxygen to support up to four people. Trees reduce erosion by slowing rainfall and holding water within their systems, they then release moisture into the air. Trees cool the air by intercepting and diffusing the suns rays. Trees also provide food and shelter for many forms of wildlife as well as people.

Economically, trees provide savings in energy costs and higher real estate values. Trees growing on the south and west sides of your home will shade it through the summer months and could lower cooling costs by 10-15%. Likewise, evergreens growing on the windward side of a home act as a windbreak, lower heating costs. This in turn lowers the demand on energy sources, which benefits the whole community. Trees also add property value by increasing curb appeal. Real estate values can increase 5-20% with a well-treed lot.

Socially, trees provide enjoyment and beauty to our community. They inspire civic pride, environmental awareness and have positive effects on the human psyche. Studies have shown that hospital patients recover faster if their room offers a view of trees! Trees can also be used to screen unpleasant views and to help direct pedestrian and vehicle traffic.

Why are native species preferable to non-native ones?

A native plant is one that occurs naturally in a particular region, ecosystem, or habitat without direct or indirect human intervention. However, the past few centuries have seen a dramatic decline in the number of these trees due to deforestation and the introduction of invasive alien species such as Goutweed, Norway maple, and Buckthorns. These non-native species have not only reduced the number of standing native trees but also disrupted our local ecology, causing a ripple effect on our environment.

Planting native species of trees and shrubs helps to re-establish the original ecosystem of the region (Carolinian or deciduous forest). Native species create natural corridors or islands in the urban landscape for migrating wildlife. Many species of wildlife do not recognize non-native species and cannot be used for food or shelter. Native trees also generally leaf out later and drop leaves sooner than non-native species. This allows the sun to reach the understory of the tree for a longer period, allowing low-growing plants to perform better. Added perk; this also makes leaf cleanup easier

Since native trees have developed in this region, they are better suited to grow here than an alien species. They are very well suited to our climate and soil types and, once established, require much less water and fertilizer than non-native species. This saves you money, relieves pressure from our water supply, and keeps our landscape free of chemical fertilizers. Native species have also grown alongside our local insect population and have developed natural defences to ward off these pests. Fungal infections are less likely to attack a native tree because its overall health should be better than a non-native one. A nice added benefit is that since these trees are resistant to infestations of pests and diseases, you won’t have to deal with as many problems. This means less fuss and less need to possibly treat the plants, and it is better for the environment and your pocketbook!

Native Tree Species of Southwestern Ontario:

Evergreen Species:

Deciduous Species:

There are many local organizations and dedicated to growing and planting the native species of SW Ontario. (Both private and government) If you are interested, look online for information regarding these groups and the benefits of native species as well lists of native shrubs and wildflowers.