Why You Should Plant a Tree in Your Los Angeles Yard
Ever noticed that when it comes to urban tree canopy, the city of Los Angeles is a bit, uh, lacking? Want to do something about it? Whether that thought stems from a desire to get create more shade, a love of trees, or aesthetic preference, we are all for it.
No matter the root of the idea (all pun intended), planting trees is one of the best ways to build climate resilience in your neighborhood. Why? Well, for starters trees eat greenhouse gases that cause climate change, act like natural air conditioners, filter your drinking water, and act as wildlife habitats for our region's rich biodiversity.
Plus, 90% of LA's urban forest resides on private property. So, if you own property or have landlord who is open to the idea of newly planted trees, becoming a tree daddy or mommy would be a noble act! If you want to learn more about trees, community, and climate resilience intertwine, check this out.
If you're ready to provide habitat for small trees, large trees, or any size tree in between at your own home, here's where we suggest looking first!
Best places to buy native trees in LA
The Los Angeles Times complied a comprehensive list of plant nurseries that sell native plants, shrubs and trees in and around the LA area.
What are the benefits of native tree planting you might ask? For one, native trees are more wildlife-friendly than many of the introduced species you see around Southern California. Plus, many natives sold at these nurseries and retail shops are drought tolerant. A few of our favorite nurseries from the LA Times list include:
Plant Material (Glassell Park): One of the store's co-founders refers to Plant Material as a "pun-rock plant shop." That makes sense, given its not-so-low-key-cool Eastside location. If this all fits your vibe, gift yourself a tree and some native soil here.
Artemisia Nursery (El Sereno): Located in a more industrial part of the city, Artemisia is a cozy place to find a TON of native species options.
Theodore Payne Foundation Nursery (Sun Valley): One of the reasons we like Theodore Payne Foundation Nursery (TPFN) so much is that they're a nonprofit focused on preserving and growing the amount of native tree species. The LA Times even calls them the "center of Southern California's plant universe." If you're looking for inspiration, TPFN hosts an incredible self-guided Native Plant Garden Tour of 30+ LA yards with landscaping that consists of 50% or more natives.
Though it didn't make the cut on the LA Times list, we also love Fig Earth Supply, which is nestled in between Cypress Park and Montecito Heights. They have really great prices and a ton of different native options that look good in any LA landscape.
When to buy and plant a tree in LA
The best time to do your tree planting in LA is between either the late fall or winter (early spring works, too). That time of year (known for rain, cool air, and moist soil) makes strong root growth easier, which in turn allows your newly planted friend to get established and thrive.
Keep in mind that native plant nurseries run out of new plants in the Southern California summer (May-September) because the plants can go dormant. Even though school is out and it might seem like an ideal time to plant a tree for the future generations of your family, fall and winter are a better time to plant roots.
So get out there and plant trees! If you need more resources to get your tree planted (like how to mulch and pruning), check out our partner TreePeople's guidance. Don't hesitate to reach out to us too for planting advice as you grow our urban forest. We're happy to help you dig deep. Yes, all pun intended.
