The basis of a natural ecosystem is a complex combination of vegetation that forms canopy, understory, and herbaceous layers.  It is easier to maintain this complexity than to restore it after most of the vegetation has been removed.

  The native species present on your property have many benefits over the horticultural or exotic species you may wish to replace them with, including traditional non-native turf species.

  Plant species native to the Muskoka area are adapted to the diverse weather and soil conditions found here.  They are more resistant to pests and diseases, and are more likely able to tolerate droughts.

  In addition, native vegetation requires little maintenance, provides excellent wildlife habitat, and allows us to reconnect with our natural heritage.

  The best thing to do is to not remove the native vegetation from your property in the first place.  However, if it is too late to preserve this vegetation, it is not too late to restore it.

  Fall is an excellent time to plant native trees and shrubs on your property.  During their dormant period when the weather turns cold, they grow vigorously to establish roots in their new location before spring rains and warm weather stimulate top growth.

  Trees and shrubs offer many benefits for our environment and for us.  As few as three trees around your home can reduce air conditioning bills by half, and offer protection from wind, snow, rain and solar rays.  They contribute to clean ground water by trapping nutrients and pollutants in their hair-like root fibres, and their roots and leaves help clean the air and water by removing particulate matter.

  Trees and shrubs are important in retaining and cycling nutrients and minerals.  They tie up mineral and nutrients from the air, water and soil through growth and transpiration, and upon death they return nutrients to the soil through decomposition.  They are also important for erosion control by anchoring soil in place so it cannot easily be washed away by wind or water, and runoff is slowed, allowing more time for absorption into the soil.

  The beauty and usefulness of trees and shrubs make them an important part of our watershed, and they should be an important part of your property.

   The above article is courtesy of The Muskoka Heritage Foundation.  For more information on the Muskoka Heritage Foundation contact  heritage@muskoka.com