How Do Trees Benefit Wildlife: A Great Partnership

 

We get a number of repeat questions at The Gifted Tree as many of our customers are curious about the benefits of trees. One of those frequently asked questions is: How do trees benefit wildlife?

Many of us are aware that trees provide many important benefits to humans as well as enhance the beauty and character of the local landscape.

Air Quality – Trees reduce air pollution and help to purify the air by absorbing carbon and other pollutants. A mature tree absorbs between 120-240 pounds per year of small particles and gases.

Economic Benefits – Trees can increase property values, improve the tax base, and enhance neighborhood appeal by making streetscapes more pleasant. Commercial areas with trees generally enjoy higher occupancy and rental/lease rates than properties without such landscaping. Trees can also have a positive impact on the price and desirability of homes. Property values for unimproved lots can rise as much as 30 percent based on the amount and density of tree cover.

Energy Benefits – Trees can reduce heating and cooling costs by cooling down the communities in which we live. Urban areas with little vegetation can experience temperatures of up to seven degrees higher than those with tree coverings.

These are just several of the benefits that trees provide to humans, and we will elaborate on them further in future blogs. But trees are just as beneficial to wildlife as they are to humans. Trees are vital for wildlife, providing essential resources like food, shelter, and breeding grounds, as well as contributing to healthy ecosystems by stabilizing soil and water. I will elaborate on each of these …

Food – Trees provide important food sources to animals:

Fruits, nuts, seeds, and leaves: Many animals rely on trees for sustenance, with species like squirrels, birds, and bears utilizing fruits, nuts, and seeds as a primary food source.
Sap and bark: Insects and other animals may feed on the sap and bark of trees.
Insects and other invertebrates: Trees provide habitat for insects and other invertebrates, which in turn serve as food for larger animals.
Shelter and Habitat – Trees are also essential in providing protection to animals:

·        Nesting and breeding sites:

Trees offer safe and secure locations for birds, squirrels, and other animals to build nests and raise their young.

·        Protection from predators:

Trees provide cover and concealment, allowing animals to escape predators and find refuge.

·        Temperature regulation:

Tree canopies provide shade, helping to regulate temperatures and create cooler microclimates for wildlife.

·        Aquatic habitats:

Trees along riverbanks and streams help stabilize shorelines, preventing erosion and creating habitats for fish and other aquatic animals.

 

Trees contribute to overall biodiversity by providing habitat for a wide variety of plant and animal species. A greater diversity of trees means a greater diversity of wildlife. They provide diverse habitats that support the interconnectedness of ecosystems and promote resilience. Trees create a variety of habitats, from the ground level to the canopy, supporting diverse plant and animal life. Trees play a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems by improving air and water quality, regulating climate, and preventing soil erosion. A diverse mix of tree species in an area can increase the resilience of ecosystems to environmental changes, such as pests, diseases, and climate fluctuations. As an example, Eastern white cedars provide cover for small birds, while white oaks produce acorns for birds and mammals to eat, demonstrating how different tree species contribute to the needs of various wildlife. And finally, increasing tree diversity in urban areas supports wildlife, which is crucial in urban ecosystems where food and habitat are often scarce.

 

Now you can see that trees and forests provide habitat for a diversity of life. A forest is more than a collection of trees. It is a complex ecosystem of diverse plants and animals. And this interconnected relationship of all forest species ensures the whole forest thrives—from soil to canopy. The Gifted Tree helps individuals and businesses make a lasting impact and help our forests thrive by planting trees in memory or celebration of special moments. The company has planted over 250,000 trees as it works with non-profit planting partners around the world who know what species to plant, when best to plant it, and even monitor its care after planting. Not only are trees and wildlife a great partnership but working with The Gifted Tree is a great partnership as well as are numerous positive testimonial prove. With planting locations in over 40 countries and unique tribute cards to commemorate your gift, The Gifted Tree makes it easy to honor loved ones and connect with the earth in meaningful ways, and provide a gift to pour friends, the forest animals, to boot.

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Plant a Tree In U.S. National Forest – CO

Plant a Tree in A U.S. National Forest Colorado

As discussed in our last couple blogs detailing planting a memorial or celebration tree in Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Arizona and Chippewa National Forest, Minnesota, planting a tree in a national forest in the United States or elsewhere around the world has become quite popular. Besides being a gift to a grieving family member or friend, or to celebrate a milestone event, these tree plantings are also a gift to the earth. The benefits range from helping reforest an area decimated by forest fire to aiding in improving the water quality of nearby rivers and lakes.  The Gifted Tree has planting projects in many United States National Forests, and this blog will focus on the project comprising many acres in and around Pike San Isabel National Forest, Colorado.

Pike San Isabel National Forest is a large forest in north central Colorado comprising well over a million acres including many of the state’s tallest mountains. When one thinks of Colorado, one thinks of lots of snow, but the environment in this area is actually quite dry, which makes it a prime location for forest fires. There have been several fires in this area over the past few years burning through Lodgepole pines and Spruce Fir forests. The intensity of these forest fires has made it difficult for these areas to naturally regenerate trees and other flora. By reforesting this area, our project that you help make possible, seeks to restore biodiversity, enhance ecosystem resilience, and mitigate the impact of future forest fires, ensuring the long-term health and sustainability of the landscape for both wildlife and communities alike.

A strand of beautiful Longleaf Pine Trees planted in a U.S. National Forest

Longleaf Pine Strand

While most of our planting projects around the world include several different tree species to be planted, this Colorado National Forest planting project only planted Lodgepole Pine trees. A number of tree experts determined collaboratively, in assessing the fire’s damage, that planting only Lodgepole pine trees was the best way to move forward to facilitate the ecosystem recovery of the area. The presence of other plant species in the understory (the vegetative layer and especially the trees and shrubs between the forest canopy and the ground cover) and adjacent habitats contributes to overall ecosystem diversity. Thus, focusing on only the Lodgepole pine for reforestation ensures the restoration of a vital component of Colorado’s forest ecosystems without excluding the presence of other species.

The Lodgepole Pine is a tree that is native to North America primarily in the Rocky Mountain region. This tree stands out with its paired needles, ranging from 1 to 3 inches in length, often twisted, giving it its distinctive appearance. In terms of bark, young lodgepole pines feature smooth, thin, grayish brown bark, while mature trees develop thick, deeply furrowed, and scaly bark with a reddish-brown hue. They are known for their towering heights, reaching between 50 to 100 feet tall, with a straight, slender trunk and a conical crown.

Distinctive needles and pine cone of a Longleaf Pine tree in a U.S. National Forest

Pine cone of a Lodgepole Pine,

Ecologically, Lodgepole pine trees serve a vital role in their native habitats. It offers various ecosystem services, such as:

Biodiversity Enhancement: By reintroducing Lodgepole pine saplings into areas affected by the fire, the reforestation project supports the recovery of vital habitat for a diverse array of fauna and flora species. Lodgepole pine forests are known to harbor numerous species, including birds, mammals, and insects, which rely on these habitats for shelter, nesting sites, and food resources. The re-establishment of these forests thus facilitates the return of biodiversity to the landscape, promoting ecosystem stability and resilience.

Carbon Sequestration: Lodgepole pine forests play a significant role in mitigating climate change through the process of carbon sequestration. Unfortunately, one of the costs of forest fires is that all the carbon stored in the old-growth trees is released and permanently lost when the trees burn. As the newly planted trees grow, they will absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it in their biomass and in the soil. By replanting Lodgepole pine seedlings, the reforestation project again allows the capacity of the landscape to sequester carbon, helping to mitigate the effects of greenhouse gas emissions and combatting climate change.

Soil Stabilization and Erosion Control: The establishment of Lodgepole pine forests contributes to soil stabilization and erosion control, particularly in mountainous regions prone to slope instability and erosion. The deep root systems of Lodgepole pine trees help anchor the soil, reducing the risk of landslides and sediment runoff into waterways. Through the reforestation project, the restoration of Lodgepole pine forests enhances soil stability, safeguarding valuable ecosystems and downstream water quality

Fire Resilience and Adaptation: Lodgepole pine forests are well-adapted to fire prone ecosystems, and their presence contributes to the natural fire regime of the landscape. By replanting Lodgepole pine saplings, the reforestation project restores the fire-adapted ecology of the area, enhancing its resilience to future wildfires.

Bark of a Longleaf Pine tree in a U.S. National Forest

Monitoring the planting project is accomplished via drone and satellite imaging as well as site visits, all with the goal of long-term growth achieving a multitude of ecological benefits that are even greater than just the reforesting of the area burned by the fire. By enhancing biodiversity, sequestering carbon, stabilizing soils, promoting fire resilience, and supporting water resource management, the project contributes to the long-term sustainability and resilience of the landscape, safeguarding its ecological integrity for future generations. As one of the project managers stated: “This project’s impact will be critical in ensuring the future mitigation of severe wildfires, thereby safeguarding an array of ecological and social benefits for the community. It is an honor to participate in such vital restoration work, and we look forward to assessing the trees’ progress in the upcoming years.” Thanks to your foresight, these projects in United States National Forests are getting funded. And The Gifted Tree makes it easy to plant  trees to celebrate an important milestone or to plant a memorial tree in memory of a loved one, in Colorado, or in 80+ locations around the world.

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Why Plant Gift Tree With The Gifted Tree 2

Beautiful Forest Scene with flowers and sun

More FAQs Answered: Why Plant a Memorial Tree with The Gifted Tree?

In my last blog I answered several frequently asked questions: How do I plant a tree as a gift?, How much does it cost to plant a celebration or memorial tree?, and Where can the tree be planted? As we have planted over 150,000 gift trees since 2013 in United States National Forests, and in 40+ countries around the world, it makes sense that more excellent and valid FAQs come up. I will answer some more of the common ones in this blog, all focused on addressing the main question of, Why plant a memorial tree with The Gifted Tree?

How do I know the Gift Tree has been Planted?

This very important question is frequently asked since we do not send pictures of each individual gift tree. The best answer is that we work with very professional and trusted planting partners around the world, ones that we have carefully vetted and have partnered with for years. We know that when we send them instructions to plant your tree, they will make sure it is done. These non-profit NGOs are some of the oldest and largest tree conservation groups in the United States and around the world who have planted millions of trees where they are needed. Our partners are focused on reforestation, giving back to the environment, creating a healthier climate, and protecting biodiversity. They pick the right species of trees to plant in the project as well as the optimal time of the year to plant them.  The trees get a head start in a nursey that is indigenous to the planting project area, before they are planted in the wild. They plant these one to two feet saplings, and then manage their care helping to ensure a healthy tree that will be around for generations.

Mountain Forest stream

Is there a Plaque on the Tree?

It would be nice if your gift tree could have a plaque with the honoree’s name attached or on a post next to it. I am sure you have visited local parks where you come across this similar sort of acknowledgement. Unfortunately, this is not practical or allowed in our tree planting projects. Your gift tree plantings are part of a large-scale reforestation project. Arborists and volunteers will walk out to the planting area, many in quite remote areas of the forest, carrying perhaps a hundred trees in a large pouch and begin planting. It would not be feasible or practical for them to also place a plaque by each tree planting. Nor is it allowed. Imagine these plaques as the tree grows in circumference. The plaque would fall off and litter the forest floor. Not the outcome that is desired. The desired outcome that is accomplished by these planting – rejuvenating forests and providing environmental and socio-economic benefits makes these projects worthwhile. And thanks to your foresight and generosity, this goal is achieved even though individual recognition at the point of planting is not.

Can I visit the tree?

While we know the general area of the tree planting, as alluded to above, we do not know the specific tree and therefore, it is not possible to visit the tree. Keep in mind that many of our projects are in remote areas and difficult, and in some cases dangerous to get to. It is not as easy as saying drive 20 miles on this road until you reach mile post so and so, park your car on the brim of the road and walk in 25 feet. It probably closer to drive your 4-wheel drive vehicle 35 miles up this fire road, hoping you don’t get stuck, and walk a mile or two through difficult terrain to reach the planting area.

That being said, The Gifted Tree does provide you with the next best alternative, a virtual visit. Each of our projects has a description available to you and the recipient, outlining the goal(s) of the project along with the species of trees to be planted. On top of that, most description provide a link to Bing earth maps so that you are able to see the general area of the tree planting on your computer to get a feel for where in the state and country the tree gift is located.

One last thing that I mentioned to tree gifters is that it is possible to visit the forest where the tree is planted. For example you can go to Pike San Isabel National Forest, Colorado, just outside of Denver. You can hike the trails in the forest, and while you won’t know exactly where your tree is planted, you will be able to smile knowing that you have contributed to this beautiful area and made a difference in the life of the recipient. Or the honoree’s family can visit that forest and close their eyes while hiking and absorb the energy and spirit of their beloved family member.

Please feel free to check out our new, visually appealing video that highlights FAQ answers in film form. Additionally, the FAQ page on our website has answers to many more questions, if you can’t wait. And one of the benefits of doing business with The Gifted Tree is that we are the company with a personal touch and many positive testimonials; you can talk to a real person to get answers if that suits you. Call our toll-free number, 800-984-2101, during business hours 9:00 – 4:00 eastern (Monday – Friday). But not on Saturday or Sunday – a lot of times on the weekends we are out planting trees in our part of the country!

Mountain Forest Panorama

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Why Plant a Gift Tree with The Gifted Tree

Beautiful mountain forest vista at sunset.

6 Key Questions Answered: Why Plant a Memorial Tree with The Gifted Tree?

The Gifted Tree has been planting memorial and celebration gift trees since 2013 and sending beautiful hand-crafted tribute cards to family and friends announcing the gift. Whether to honor a lost family member, friend, or pet, or to celebrate a life milestone event, we have planted over 150,000 trees in United States National Forests and in over 40 countries around the world. Understandably, people have questions about what we do: How does this work? How much does it cost? and Where can I plant a celebration or memorial tree? The answer to those questions and many others can be found in the FAQ section on our website. The Gifted Tree has also gotten with the times and produced a video that also provides insights and answers to those questions along with a few others.

How does it work to plant a tree as a gift?

The Gifted Tree makes it easy to plant a tree in memory of a loved one (including pets) or to honor someone who is celebrating an important event. It can be done in 3 easy steps: 1. On the order form, you will choose the tribute design, number of trees planted, and a planting location from over 80 locations in U.S. National Forests and around the world. 2. Personalize the tree planting certificate and let us know who to mail it to. Don’t stress if you don’t know what to write. We have lots of heartfelt suggestions on what to write (including those specifically for pet memorial trees). 3. We will hand create the tribute card (no automatic computer-generated certificates) and mail it to wherever you tell us. Our non-profit tree planting partners will plant your tree and look after it to ensure it is well on its way to providing a lifetime of shade and ecological benefits. If desired, we provide info on the planting project and a way to virtually view the general area of the tree planting.

Please understand that physical trees are not sent: your gift tree planting is announced by a beautiful, unique tribute card (which contains the tree planting certificate) that is mailed to the recipient. You can also choose to have the tribute card sent to you if you would like to hand deliver it yourself.

Reflecting mountain lake in autumn

How much does it cost to plant a memorial or celebration tree?

The cost of the gift will depend on the tribute option you select. There are six different tribute design options available to choose from ranging from a handmade seed paper card to a pop-up card to several framed options. There is also an animated email option which is very beneficial if you want to get it there quickly, or for international orders, or if you don’t know the mailing address of the recipient. The costs range from $19.95 for the eCard up to $69.95 for the Lucite framed option and include the planting of one tree. Multiple trees are available for a small additional charge per tree, and that additional charge per tree can be found on the order form. In any case the total number of trees you plant is noted on the tree planting certificate.

Where can I plant a memorial or celebration gift tree?

3D World Tree Map

One of the advantages of working with The Gifted Tree is that we have tree planting locations in the United States and in 40+ countries around the world to choose from. With the earth losing approximately 10 -15 billion trees per year, coupled with losing the benefits those trees provide, trees are needed everywhere. Therefore, don’t stress on where to plant your memorial or celebration tree as all our planting projects provide tremendous benefits to the earth. Our suggestion is to plant where the individual you are honoring lives or lived, vacationed, or had some sort of family connection. Wherever you decide, that location will be noted on the tree planting certificate, and project descriptions are available describing the goals of the project, the species of trees to be planted, along with the ability to take a virtual tour of most projects by viewing a Bing earth map.

There are several more questions addressed in our new, visually appealing video, and I will highlight those answers in my next blog. As previously mentioned, our FAQ page has answers to many more questions, if you can’t wait. And one of the benefits of doing business with The Gifted Tree is that we are the company with a personal touch, and you can talk to a real person to get answers if that suits you. Call our toll-free number, 800-984-2101, during business hours 9:00 – 4:00 eastern (Monday – Friday, not Saturday or Sunday). A lot of times on the weekends we are out planting trees in our part of the country!

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Planting Trees and Sustainabilty

Plant a Tree to help global reforestation efforts

I dare to say that all of us have heard the word “sustainability,” making one think that its definition is quite simple. But to the contrary, the definition of the word “sustainability” is quite complex, not only due to the fact that not everyone can agree on its definition, but due to the fact that it encompasses a wide range of ideals.

In 1987, the United Nations defined sustainability as “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” The United States Environmental Protection Agency states that sustainability is based on a simple principle: Everything that we need for our survival and well-being depends, either directly or indirectly, on our natural environment. To pursue sustainability is to create and maintain the conditions under which humans and nature can exist in productive harmony to support present and future generations. The Cambridge dictionary defines sustainability as the quality of being able to continue over a long period of time. As you can see, while there is a common thread among the definitions, there certainly is a degree of variation.

3 Pillars of Sustainability

Overall, sustainability aims to create a harmonious balance between environmental health, economic viability, and social equity as it encompasses three main pillars:

Environmental Sustainability: Protecting and conserving natural resources and ecosystems, reducing pollution, and mitigating climate change to ensure a healthy planet for future generations.

Economic Sustainability: Promoting economic growth and development that provides jobs and prosperity without depleting resources or causing ecological damage. It involves creating a balanced approach that supports long-term economic health.

Social Sustainability: Ensuring social equity, access to resources, and opportunities for all individuals, fostering community well-being, and respecting cultural diversity. This includes addressing issues like poverty, inequality, and human rights.

While economic and social sustainability are great goals, I will let other experts tackle those areas. I will focus on environmental sustainability as that is what we attempt to help by planting trees at The Gifted Tree. Let us delve into why the planting of trees is a sustainable endeavor. Planting trees can help sustainability in many ways, including:

Plant Trees to Help Global Sustainability

Environmental Sustainability

Climate change
Trees remove carbon dioxide from the air, store carbon in the soil and trees, and release oxygen through photosynthesis. A single mature tree can absorb around 21 kilograms of carbon dioxide per year. Reforestation projects can sequester millions of tons of carbon annually.

Air quality
Trees act as natural filters, absorbing harmful pollutants like nitrogen oxides, ozone, and carbon monoxide, and trapping dust and smoke in their leaves and bark. They also absorb odors and other gases like ammonia, sulfur dioxide, and ozone.

Water quality
Trees trap and absorb excess nutrients and sediments before they reach waterways, helping to reduce contamination of freshwater resources.

Biodiversity
Trees provide food, cover, and places to raise young for wildlife, such as birds, insects, squirrels, and bees. A single tree can be home to hundreds of species of insect, fungi, moss, mammals, and plants, whereas forests create a wonderfully balanced system where soil, plants, and animals all depend on each other to thrive as a diverse ecosystem.

3D World Tree Map
Conclusion 

In summary, forests support human life all over the world as they regulate our climate, clean the air we breathe, and filter the water we drink. They also provide habitat for more than two-thirds of terrestrial wildlife and plants. They are one of our most important resources, offering a renewable supply of the materials and the goods we need for a more sustainable future. While plating memorial trees  and celebration trees with The Gifted Tree helps one connect on a personal level with loved ones and friends by expressing your feelings and showing you care, on a macro-level, our tree planting supports vital reforestation efforts around the world, helping to improve our planet’s health and giving a gift to the world.

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Pet Memorial Tree -Honor a Loved Companion

“It takes a special pet to make us care so deeply and miss them so greatly.”

Small dog and cat cuddling at home

We Love Pets

It seems to be undeniable that Americans have a love affair with pets. Over 100 million households in this country have at least one pet. Dogs are the most common household pets, with over 60 million, with cats coming in second place. But let’s not forget about fish, birds, small animals (gerbils and rabbits for example), reptiles, and horses. Just take a walk around the neighborhood on a nice summer night and this fact will be confirmed, at least in respect to dogs. America’s deep affection for pets is a testament to the unique bond humans share with animals. This bond was developed thousands of years prior as confirmed on ancient hieroglyphic rock etchings in ancient times. Dogs were valued for their loyalty and skills in hunting and protection, while cats were cherished for their ability to control disease carrying vermin.

One of the most significant shifts in the perception of pets, at least in recent times, is their transition from being mere animals to becoming family members. From the wagging tails of dogs to the soothing purrs of cats, pets have become integral members of many households across the country. A survey conducted by Harris Poll found that 95% of pet owners consider their pets part of the family. This sentiment is reflected in the way people celebrate their pets’ birthdays, include them in holiday festivities, and even create social media profiles for them. Visit a restaurant patio and most likely you have shared it with a dog or two. Drive down any road and it is common to see a dog’s head sticking out of the passing car’s window. Take a plane trip and there is a good chance that you have boarded along side an accompanied pet, whether you wanted to or not. And a big amenity for any community, whether to maintain residents, or to attract new residents, is the local dog parks. The proliferation of these parks around the country in the last decade is staggering. The city of Boise, Idaho leads the way with over seven dog parks per one hundred thousand residents.

Health Benefits of Owning a Pet

Several factors have contributed to the rise in pet ownership. Numerous studies have highlighted the health benefits of owning a pet. Pets are known to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. The simple act of petting a dog or cat can release endorphins and lower blood pressure. Additionally, pets encourage physical activity; dog owners, for instance, are more likely to engage in regular exercise through daily walks. During the COVID-19 pandemic, pets played a crucial role in providing emotional support. As people faced isolation and uncertainty, pets offered unwavering companionship and comfort. Animal shelters across the country reported a surge in adoptions, as individuals and families sought the solace that pets provide.

Pet Loss Tree - Dog Over The Rainbow Bridge

Losing a Pet

The downside with the infatuation of owning pets is that they don’t typically live as long as humans. The average life span for a dog is 10-13 years depending on the size and breed. Ask any dog lover and they will tell you that they will go through mourning several times in their lifetime due to this short canine lifespan. Losing a pet is a profound and heart-wrenching experience. For many, pets are not just animals but cherished members of the family, providing unconditional love, companionship, and joy. The death of a beloved pet can evoke intense emotions, and navigating the grief that follows can be challenging. I have addressed this challenge in a prior blog, 3 Tips for Grieving the Loss of a Pet.

Man and dog sitting in a forest of Cherry trees

Pet Memorial Tree

I have noticed in the last year since that blog was published how many more people are planting a pet memorial tree in order to create an everlasting tribute for their pet or for their friends or colleagues who have lost a pet. Planting a pet memorial tree to honor a faithful dog companion is the most common given the close connection between dogs and trees. What dog would not want to be memorialized with their own tree?!

The Gifted Tree makes it easy to plant a pet memorial tree. We have a number of beautiful hand-crafted tribute options which will resonate with the recipient and show you care. Some of the tributes are pet specific such as the Paw Prints premium sympathy card and a selection of pet loss animated digital eCards. As an added bonus, The Gifted Tree has a list of pet condolence messages to include on your tribute if you are struggling to find the right words to write on the tree planting certificate. Whether you’re looking for a more meaningful way to remember your own beloved pet after they’ve crossed the rainbow bridge or you’d like to send a tribute to a friend or family member who has lost a faithful companion, a memorial tree planting for the loss of a pet will create a perfect remembrance gift and a lasting legacy. Planting a tree in honor of a dog, cat, bird, or other animal is an enduring pet memorial gift.

Dog noses emerging from a heart-shaped blanket

 

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FAQs Answered – Can I Pick The Type Of Tree To Be Planted?

The Gifted Tree has been planting memorial and celebration trees since 2013. When you have been doing the same thing for a long time, you get a lot of the same questions. In a series of blogs, I will provide some answers to these frequently asked questions as well as provide in-depth reasons for the answer, more in-depth than what is provided on the FAQ section of our website. Today, the FAQ to be discussed is, “Can I pick the type of tree to be planted?”

Short Answer to the FAQ: Can I pick the species of tree to be planted? 

Unfortunately, not. While the types of trees planted at a particular project are often listed in planting project description sheets, you are not able to designate the type of tree to plant. We leave it up to the professionals on site to determine the best trees to plant to achieve the project’s goals. Silviculturists (scientists who study how to grow trees) decide on the type of tree that will grow best in an area, and the best time of year to plant. The objectives of the silvicultural prescriptions for planting sites include the reintroduction of tree species that were originally in that particular ecosystem in order to improve the resilience and resistance of the forest to fire, insects, diseases, and the potential effects of climate change. So, while you will know the different tree species included in your planting project, you won’t know specifically which one is your tree species.

More In-depth Answer to the FAQ: Can I pick the species of tree to be planted? 

You might have noticed in the answer above, it states that most planting projects have multiple species of trees, not just one. When I first started doing this type of work, and actually went into the field and to plant the trees, we would only plant one species of trees. I would arrive at a site and several hundred of the same species of trees would be waiting for us to plant. We would spend the day digging and planting these trees, not worrying where exactly they would go as long as we left at least a shovel length in between each tree. In other words, we did not want the saplings to be too close to one another. That they knew was not good for long-term survivability.

A few years ago, there was a shift in understanding tree planting strategies and what is best to ensure a “happy” tree. I would get to the site and while there would still be several hundred trees waiting to be planted, they were separated into groups of 5- 6 different species. We were given instructions to make sure all the different species were planted in the different grids that were “drawn” out on the landscape in front of us. I was curious as to what was the catalyst to this new philosophy in tree planting, so I asked the arborists who were helping with the project logistics.

They explained that while it was once thought that it did not matter if there was one species or multiple species planted in a project, scientific research concluded that trees were “happier” when grouped with a multitude of species. Not only is it important to plant more trees and increase the tree canopy in this country, but it is also essential to be more thoughtful as to what is planted. I live in the community of Shaker Heights, a suburb outside of Cleveland, Ohio. We have beautiful tree lined streets, but in its founding, about 100 years ago, the streets were lined mainly with elm trees. Unfortunately, Dutch elm disease was brought to this country and caused the tragic demise of the specie’s population. The practice of planting the same type of tree exclusively in one area was beautiful when it worked but as these trees succumbed to elm disease, many of them had to be cut down.  As a result of situations like that just described, mixed planting of various species of trees is now considered the correct practice in these settings. Thus, when travelling down the streets of Shaker Heights, one will still find them to be tree lined, but instead of just elms, there are a variety of species.

A similar practice is taking place in the forest, and for good reason. The most compelling argument for planting a mix of various kinds of trees in a given area is that this is how forests grow naturally. The model that Mother Nature uses is mingling diverse species that have a variety of genetic strengths. If one species gets attacked by pests or disease, there are other species that are resistant to the problem, and they maintain the forest until the threatened one either recovers or is succeeded by another type of tree. This diverse tree population, especially if the trees are native to the region, also hosts diverse populations of beneficial creatures that protect the tree community, which in turn, sustains them. Furthermore, diverse types of trees in polyculture (the planting of multiple species) tree plantings each have their own unique susceptibilities and resistances which offset others’ vulnerabilities. Because they harbor a healthy community of organisms and animals that are in balance, pest and disease problems typically are not able to take hold as easily and do not spread as extensively.

Conclusion

As we better understand the science of the forest, we adapt our methods to take advantage of our knowledge. It took many years to determine that planting the same species presented problems, but it wasn’t necessarily the species that was the problem, but the method. Now as we seek to enhance the tree canopy around the country, in both urban and rural situations, we understand that planting a diverse group of tree species can yield better results with forests that are better able to adapt and survive invasion of diseases and hopefully adapt better to climate change issues as well. So, while you can’t pick the precise species for your memorial or celebration tree, realize that your tree is a gift to the earth and making a lasting impact by understanding that the experts are planting multiple tree species to ensure long-term growth, lasting for generations.

Doug and Laura from The Gifted Tree planting trees in Cuyahoga Valley National Park Ohio

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Arbor Day On Steroids

Atlanta, Georgia, Tree City USA winner

Have you ever driven into a community and seen a sign commemorating that they are a “Tree City USA” winner designation? I have done that many times, but I never realized what it actually means. I live in Shaker Heights, Ohio, a suburb of Cleveland. I just found out that we have been designated such for 39 consecutive years but have never seen a sign at our community boundary. Being in the tree business, I know it is a good designation, but I figure I better find out what it means, especially during this time of year when we celebrate Earth Month, Earth Day, and Arbor Day. So, let’s find out together.

Tree City USA History

When you are named a Tree City USA designee, it means you have met the criteria established by the Arbor Day Foundation as well as that of the National Association of State Foresters. According to Arbor Day’s website, Tree City USA started in 1976 and is one of the Arbor Day Foundation’s oldest programs. Its founders had a vision for a greener, healthier America, and hoped this initiative would inspire change on a nationwide level. The first Tree City USA member list was comprised of 42 communities in 16 states. Today, the program includes more than 3,600 communities from all 50 states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico.

The National Association of State Foresters, according to its website, was born in 1920 and has served as a leading authority on forest management in the United States. NASF’s membership is composed of the directors of forestry agencies in the 50 states, five U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia. Through its members, referred to as “state foresters,” the association advocates for federal legislation and national policies that promote the health, resilience, and productivity of both rural and urban forests.

State forestry agencies are the primary delivery system for forest management activities nationwide. They conserve, enhance, and protect state and private forests, which encompass nearly two-thirds of the nation’s forests, and are responsible for wildfire protection on more than 1.5 billion acres.  To that end, NASF administers another award that many of us are familiar with, the Smokey Bear Award. In the world of wildfire prevention, there is no greater honor than to receive a Smokey Bear Award. These special awards are reserved for people or organizations that provide sustained, outstanding service.

Urban forestry tree planting in Georgia

Tree City USA Benefits

Urban Forestry has become a buzzword over the past decade as many communities and government officials have come to recognize the benefits of trees in their community. The Gifted Tree’s blog on this topic highlights many of these benefits, but it is always helpful to refresh your memory as increasing the tree population in your geo-space yields so many wonderful results. A thriving urban tree canopy helps:

  • Increase property values in your community.
  • Provides natural air conditioning by keeping surroundings cooler as climate change has increased ambient temperatures. (It doesn’t take long to realize this in the summer if you lose a large shade tree on your property.)
  • Act as a sound buffer, absorbing traffic noise and other high decibel creating annoyances.
  • Protecting buildings from damage caused by high winds.
  • Help fight the damaging effects of climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, and finally,
  • Create green space in neighborhoods which is critical to improving mental and physical health.

Tree City USA Standards

To become a Tree City USA “winner”, communities must demonstrate meeting four standards:

  1. Maintaining a tree board or department
  2. Having a community tree ordinance
  3. Spending at least $2 per capita on urban forestry
  4. Celebrating Arbor Day, which this year is on Friday, April 26

How You Can Help

If your community is not part of the Tree USA group, and you have passion for trees, solicit your government officials to join the program. Publicly demonstrating a community’s commitment to the environment is a great way to build pride among residents, as well as position your community as an attractive place to live. The benefits trees bring to a city environment are numerous. Why not have that Tree City USA sign at the entrance to your neighborhood to let all know that you celebrate trees and the benefits they bring to the environment. The Gifted Tree is helping with urban forestry by now offering tree planting locations not just in national forests but in urban areas as well – New York City, Newark, New Jersey, and the Chicagoland area. When you plant a memorial or celebration tree, just select an urban planting location. Any questions, feel free to contact us directly. We want to help you celebrate Arbor Day all year long.

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Plant a Tree – Best Place & Type to Plant

Tree reforestation project with tree saplings

While it is extremely difficult to place an exact number of how many trees the earth loses per year, it is in the order of many millions to some say even a billion trees. No one debates the importance of trees and the need to keep planting them. The benefits of planting trees are well documented: climate change mitigation, biodiversity conservation, air quality improvement, soil conservation and water management, and aesthetic and recreation values.

In our business of planting memorial,  celebration, and pet loss trees in the United States and around the globe, The Gifted Tree gets asked quite often, where is the best place to plant a tree? There is no right answer to this question as, unfortunately, so many areas are in desperate need of new trees. That is why we offer over 80 locations worldwide for you to select for your tree planting. No part of the globe is spared from the need for more trees, although different areas need it for different reasons because tree loss has numerous culprits.

Tree planting reforestation landscape

Best Place To Plant a Tree

Forest fires receive a lot of media attention, making us aware of their devastation. This has been the case more recently as climate change has played havoc with the environment and created conditions conducive to these fires. Fires in the western part of the United States has created urgent needs for reforestation in California and other western states. Similarly, forest fires have ravaged parts of Canada, western Europe, and Australia. Fires in the Amazon rain forest have also received a lot of attention although many of those are started by humans as a result of the need to clear land for agricultural pursuits. This is also the case in Africa where clearcutting takes place to open land for animal grazing as well as to provide firewood just so families can cook meals and survive.

The Gifted Tree also has projects to replace trees due to clearcutting from mining operations, (Appalachian Forest) to reforesting from the effects of the world wars (Italy) and replacing areas that lost trees from disease (parts of Africa). Finally, The Gifted Tree is starting to plant in urban projects (New York, New Jersey, and Illinois) which provides benefits from trees for a variety of different reasons.

Urban forest projects are critical for replacing the tree canopy in these areas that have seen a large tree canopy decrease due to factors such as urban growth sprawl, disease, and climate change issues not to mention being trampled by community members. Furthermore, with the effects of warmer temps and more frequent and severe storms, these urban tree projects are more critical as the trees provide shade, lower ambient temperatures, absorb carbon dioxide and produce oxygen. These benefits are critical  in improving life for those living in these urban areas and whose lives disproportionally suffer from income inequality.

Our advice in determining which location to plant, is to pick a place that has meaning for the person you are honoring. Where did they live or where did they like to visit will make that location very meaningful and special. Another possible factor to consider is family heritage. For instance, does the family you are honoring have Irish heritage? If so, consider our planting project in Ireland. If that person is of Indian descent, consider planting the tree in India which will be very meaningful to the family. Other of our international planting locations can play a similar role.

Best Species of Tree To Plant

A related question we receive besides where is the best place to plant the tree is what type of tree should we plant? Please understand that you and we can’t dictate the type of tree species to be planted in a particular planting project. That is determined by our expert non-profit tree planting partners who will make their determination based on the location and what tree will be a best fit for long-term survivability. Factors that are considered include selecting species that are appropriate for the planting site, types that are indigenous to the area, as well as compatible with each other. Other factors considered are soil type, moisture levels, sunlight exposure, and potential interactions between species. One note of interest, and one that has changed since I first started planting trees, is the planting project use to be all one species of tree as the science thought that was best for the project. That thinking has changed.

Now when I go to plant trees in projects, I arrive at the site and there are groupings of 5-6 different species for us to plant. The scientific thought is that a forest is a community, and a diverse community seems to thrive better than a homogeneous community. Scientists are still studying this phenomenon and tweaking their approach, but by planting a range of species that are native and well-suited to the local climate and soil conditions, you increase the chances of overall project success. Some species may be better adapted to drought, while others thrive in wetter conditions. This diversity improves the project’s resilience to changing environmental conditions. And finally, maintaining genetic diversity within tree populations is essential for their long-term health and adaptability. Planting multiple species helps preserve genetic diversity and thus reduces the risk of inbreeding within populations which can have an adverse effect.

Oak tree saplings ready to be planted

In Conclusion

In conclusion, The Gifted Tree will plant the species of tree best suited for the area where you select to plant your memorial tree or celebration tree in honor of a loved one.. In determining where to plant, use the advice mentioned above realizing we are incorporating best practices to mitigate the risks and minimize the impact of wildfires, disease and climate change  on our cherished landscapes and communities. But if you are still struggling, my advice is don’t over think it. The world needs trees everywhere. Just remember the old Chinese proverb: The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago, the next best time is now. So just plant!

 

 

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How to Write a Sympathy Note

One of the hardest things in life is reaching out to someone who has just lost a loved one. A lot of us want to avoid those in that situation and look the other way. Either we don’t know what to say, how to say it, or are afraid of saying the wrong thing. While it is tempting to ignore the situation, sending a sympathy card or reaching out with a sympathy letter is probably the best thing you can do for that person.  It can go a long way in helping a grieving individual or family get through a difficult time. Your kind words can bring a moment of comfort during a difficult time, and including a planting of a memorial gift tree in remembrance is a gesture that will not only leave a lasting impact, but is also good for the earth, bringing life full circle.

My suggestion is always find time to reach out to that person or family with a personal note as opposed to email or text. Whether you live close to the person or far away, whether you knew the person they lost well or not at all, take the time to connect. It can actually be preferable to share your sympathies in a card as opposed to bringing it up to the person the next time you see them. It  can make it easier when you do see that person as they will know that you have already reached out and it will make that experience less awkward.

I can’t stress enough about sending a tangible expression of sympathy. It won’t sit there “not opened” in an email box, or worse yet, get lost in a spam filter. It also gives the recipient more control over when it is read. Furthermore, a sympathy note can be read over and experienced in the privacy of one’s home.

 

 

Keep it simple. It doesn’t have to be in flowery language. Remember that you are not trying to fix anything. The recipient just wants to know you are thinking of them and feeling for them during a difficult time. When struggling to find just the right words, The Gifted Tree provides some guidance and heartfelt samples so that your voice and sentiments shine through. The Gifted Tree also has a range of presentation options that will really show the recipient that you care. A beautiful forest scene note card enclosure is also available allowing you to express additional thoughts that you don’t want to include on the tree certificate.

Finally, it is never too late to connect and plant a tree in memory of a loved one. Many people find that they are surrounded by love in the days surrounding their loss but find themselves grieving and feeling very alone weeks and months down the road when everyone else seems to have forgotten. Receiving a memorial gift tree a few months later, or even on the first anniversary of a death, can go a long way toward helping a grieving person feel remembered and supported, and letting them know you care.

 

Yours Treely,
Doug and Laura

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