Taking care of existing large canopy trees has gained great momentum throughout Montgomery County. Tree Canopy is any area covered by trees when seen from above. It includes forests, neighborhoods, urban settings, orchards and agricultural areas. Some of our prevalent canopy trees are white oak (Quercus alba), bitternut hickory (Carya cordiformis), American beech (Fagus grandifolia), tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera), and native sycamore (Platanus occidentalis). In the forest, smaller trees and shrubs are called the understory and include plants such as flowering dogwood (Cornus florida), redbud (Cercis canadensis), and paw-paw (Asimina triloba). Understory plants usually prefer some shade provided by the canopy trees. The lowest layer in the forest is referred to as the forest floor and typically has ferns and wildflowers. These layers are often the basis of naturalistic garden designs. Invasive non-native plants and deer are taking a terrible toll on all layers of our gardens, natural areas, and forests. No doubt you have noticed how the English ivy and other invasive vines are killing many trees along MacArthur Boulevard.
A study done by Harry R. Hughes Center for Agro-Ecology reported that Maryland experienced a net statewide forest loss of more than 19,000 acres from 2013 through 2018. This loss, due to development and forest fragmentation, is especially significant in growing suburban counties like Montgomery County.
The good news is that in January 2024 Montgomery County Council voted unanimously to enact legislation to Expand Tree Canopy Conservation to update the laws regarding tree canopy and roadside tree work. The purpose of the Bill (Bill 40-23) is to encourage the conservation of trees in Montgomery County.
"Our trees are among our most important natural assets. Trees reduce storm water runoff, provide shelter for wildlife and support our environmental goals by naturally keeping our homes cooler," said Councilmember Glass, chair of the Transportation and Environment Committee. “By preserving and enhancing our tree canopy, we are ensuring an environmentally sustainable quality of life for today’s residents and future generations.”
Older trees do not need as much care as newly planted trees. Mature trees should be pruned as necessary to remove dead and damaged branches or branches that pose a safety risk. Established trees must be protected during construction because compaction of the soil is terrible for tree roots and may eventually kill the tree. Watering is only needed in times of extreme drought. A thin, shallow layer of mulch can be helpful, but it should never be placed directly at the base of the tree trunk. Beware, as some tree companies are known to scare people into removing trees when it is not necessary. For any tree care, be sure to hire a reputable arborist.
Young native trees are providing the next generation. Native plants play a critical role in the health of our ecosystem and support biodiversity. They have co-evolved with many insects that are an essential food that birds need to feed their young. Fruit, nuts, and seeds of native plants are a vital food source for wildlife. Specific native plants are a source of nectar for butterflies, native bees, hummingbirds, moths. and bats. If you plant some natives, you will see how your garden becomes a popular spot for birds and butterflies!
There are many great resources in our County to apply for free trees and to gather helpful information. Consider these:
Tree Montgomery provides free shade trees and assistance on tree care to property owners in Montgomery County.
Montgomery Tree Care has excellent information of caring for trees:
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