Trees & Shrubs

A tree's life doesn't begin and end as neatly as we might think. From a tiny seedling to a towering mature tree, an enormous number of systems are constantly working together to keep it alive. And when those systems begin to fail, a tree changes its priorities, redirects its resources, and does what it can to survive. Even after death, the tree's story continues as it supports other life cycles and processes. This October, let's take a closer look at the life, decline, and afterlife of a tree, and some of the fascinating things happening inside it along the way.

The Colorado blue spruce is a medium-to-large evergreen conifer that typically reaches 30–60 feet tall in cultivation, and up to 75–100 feet in the wild. Its most distinguishing feature is its stiff, sharp needles that range in color from silvery blue to powdery steel-blue.

The Chinese cedar (Toona sinensis) is a vibrant, multi-purpose tree celebrated for its striking pink spring foliage, edible shoots, and deep cultural roots in East Asia.

With its long, twisted branches full of greenish-white strands of moss, its wide, massive trunk, and longstanding ecological and economic value, the southern live oak (Quercus virginiana) should be revered as one of the most characteristic trees native to the southeastern United States.

If you’ve ever stumbled across a large, wrinkled green fruit that looks like a brain and drops with a heavy thud in late summer, you’ve likely encountered the Osage orange tree (Maclura pomifera). Despite the name, this tree isn’t related to citrus.

We could have had shady, fruit-bearing trees and breathable air. Instead, we got pollen-bombing forests of sterile male trees — all because someone didn’t want to sweep. Thanks, urban planning.

Let's talk cherries! In this article, we cover the historical significance of black cherry trees, their ornamental and ecological value, and how to care for them.

Ginkgo trees are easily recognized by their distinctive fan-shaped leaves, which turn a brilliant yellow in the fall. They are highly tolerant of pollution, pests, and poor soil, making them well-suited for urban environments.

Want to grow healthier plants with lush foliage, vibrant blooms, and abundant harvests? Proper fertilization is the key to success—whether you’re tending to a backyard garden, nurturing houseplants, or growing towering trees.

As temperatures drop and natural food sources like insects and seeds diminish, these trees step in to provide birds nourishment through berries, fruits, seeds, and overwintering insects.

Evergreens play a vital role in winter landscapes, offering ecological benefits, visual beauty, and cultural significance during a time when many other plants are dormant.