Tree Planting

A story in one of my Google Alerts sent me down a rabbit hole, resulting in learning about a new term I hadn't heard before: "treewashing."

In this issue: Learn about the practice called "treewashing." Read about how AI is helping scientists track the growth of ghost forests and about the science behind DC's iconic cherry blossoms. Our "Native Trees of Maryland" looks at the American Basswood, and "Invasives in Your Woodlands" looks at the Bee-bee Tree. And don't forget the events calendar and the Brain Tickler challenge.

While cherry blossoms are seen as a natural symbol of spring in the wider Washington, D.C. area, their consistent beauty is actually the result of careful scientific management and human intervention.

In this issue: Read about the benefits of using phenology in your woodlands, and how you can join us for our online course, "The Woods in Your Backyard." Learn about a new group seeking to expand the knowledge and practice of prescribed fire in Maryland. Our "Native Trees of Maryland" looks at the Common Hackberry, and "Invasives in Your Woodlands" looks at the Japanese Angelica Tree. And don't forget the events calendar and the Brain Tickler challenge.

New from MassWoods at the University of Massachusetts Amherst: "Reforestation Guide: Tree Planting to Enrich, Restore, and Adapt Northern Forests"

Registration is now open for the Spring 2026 session of “The Woods in Your Backyard” online course. Our course is designed primarily for small-acreage property owners who want to learn how to care for or expand existing woodlands, or to convert lawn space to woodlands.

Phenology links what you see on the ground to patterns in weather and climate, turning casual observation into a powerful management tool.

In this issue: Read about the transitions in woodlands from autumn to winter, and the benefits of leaving leaves where they fall. There's also news about a new milestone for the Healthy Forests Healthy Waters program. Our "Native Trees of Maryland" looks at the Dwarf Chinquapin Oak, and "Invasives in Your Woodlands" looks at the Goldenrain Tree. And don't forget the events calendar and the Brain Tickler challenge.

Property owners may wish to enhance privacy and aesthetics and the listed providers can help them achieve their ideal setting.

Planting trees helps your natural areas in many ways. They contribute to cleaner air and water, increase shade to reduce energy costs, and provide habitat for wildlife. Providers of tree planting services are listed here.