Nature lovers, gardeners, and conservationists recognize the value of a healthy forest. When it comes to restoring these ecosystems, we often think of herbaceous plants like goldenrods or ferns. But trees and shrubs pack a way bigger punch regarding ecological impact. That’s why our favorite projects are those that restore forests.
The Benefits of Trees and Shrubs
According to the National Wildlife Federation, oaks support 521 pollinator species as compared to only 138 species supported by goldenrods. Trees also play an outsized role in providing habitat complexity, buffering stormwater, sequestering carbon, and facilitating below-ground ecosystem health—all things that herbaceous plants can’t do.
Our Recent Forest Restoration Project
We recently completed a forest restoration project on our property where we extended the existing neighboring forest by planting trees and shrubs such as various oaks, American beech, Arrowood spicebush, and witch hazel. We topped it off with a handful of ferns, some heartleaf ginger, and white wood aster. This new garden packs a huge ecological punch and will be fairly neat and orderly for years to come!
Restoring forests is one of the most important things we can do for our planet. Not only are they beneficial for wildlife, but they also help us mitigate climate change by storing carbon dioxide in the soil while providing local communities with clean air and water. Investing in projects that restore forests is one of the best ways to benefit both people and nature in the long run. If you’re looking for an impactful project with lasting benefits for generations to come, consider investing in forest restoration!