Why Sassafras Is Shining This Fall: Pest Cycles, Color, and Ecology
In Chicago and the collar counties we have had deep ground frost over the past two winters due to the lack of snow cover resulting in less survival of certain pests especially jap beetle larva thus less mature jap beetles. Behind Linden, Sassafras is a favorite food source of jap beetle. This has allowed the […]
Black Tupelo: A Native Gem for Illinois Landscapes
Meet the Black Tupelo, an Illinois native, a wildlife magnet, and undisputed champion of “Best Dressed in Autumn.” It may take its sweet time settling in after planting, but once it hits its stride, this tree delivers decades of color and character. When selecting trees that combine resilience, native beauty, and ecological value, the […]
Why Plant Native Trees in Chicagoland?
When we talk about building healthier, more resilient urban forests in Chicagoland, one of the most important steps we can take is planting native trees. Native trees have evolved alongside our soils, climate, and wildlife for thousands of years, and they provide benefits that non-native simply cannot match. Why Native Trees Matter Adapted to Our […]