April 2017.
Texas Native Trees have long provided vital benefits to wildlife – nectar, forage, and habitat – that are in shrinking supply as both rural and urban communities expand. In Northaven Park, however, viewing these Texas Natives is as easy as a walk in the park, or along the Joe’s Creek Greenbelt.
While some varieties may not be the first choice for planting in residential yards, we can still appreciate their long and unique history, distinctive properties and diverse appearances.
Here then is an easy (too easy!) quiz. Match the photos and the tree names to the descriptions.
Planting a tree with care and proper technique is always a good idea, offering a sense of accomplishment for a job well done in the present, and the expectation of aesthetic and other benefits for generations to come. Earth Day can be every day – planting a tree remains one of the best ways to take positive action for the environment. For an excellent guide to suitable varieties, see the tree selector at Texas Tree Planting. Input variables such as soil type, space available, fall color, and the selector can yield several recommended trees to match your requirements. For planting guidelines, see “Tree Planting” under the library tab at Dirtdoctor.com.
Vince Punaro, Creek Leader