My Journey with Trees: From Black Walnuts to Citrus
When you've planted hundreds of trees, it's not just about adding greenery to the landscape. It's about finding joy in the process and reaping the benefits of hard work. In my 30 years living in the country, I've planted hundreds of trees, with a particular love for ornamental and fruit trees.
A Childhood Fondness for Black Walnuts
My love for trees began when I was a child, specifically with black walnuts. My aunt had a black walnut tree in her yard, and it left a lasting impression on me. I remember the rich, dark fruits and how they resembled tiny, jewel-like treasures. When I got married and moved to the country, I wanted to keep this love for trees alive. I planted my first tree, a three-year-old black walnut, in a perfect spot, away from my house. Over the years, my love for trees has grown, and now I have more than I can use.
Moving Beyond Ornamentals
While ornamental trees are beautiful, I soon realized that a tree's beauty should not be its only selling point. Whether it provides shade, fruit, or both, every tree planted should serve a purpose. For instance, I grew to love sugar maple trees for their vibrant autumn colors and the shade they provide, but I also appreciate the Japanese Dogwoods and flowering pears for their aesthetic value. My goal is to find a balance: trees that are not just pretty but also functional and beneficial.
A Pragmatic Approach to Tree Planting
Over the years, I've taken on large-scale tree planting projects, including planting over 100,000 trees. Most of these were Douglas-firs, a common choice for their hardiness and fast growth, but I also planted Pacific silver fir, western larch, ponderosa pine, and lodgepole pine. These trees have played a significant role in shaping the landscape and ensuring the land remains healthy and productive.
Embracing Diverse Tree Species
When it comes to ornamental trees, I’ve planted various species including redwood dogwoods, Franklin alhambra, and flowering pears. These trees not only add beauty to the garden but also enhance biodiversity. However, my interest extends beyond just aesthetics. I've grown to love fruit trees as well, including peaches, nectarines, apricots, lemons, limes, oranges, calamondin, and avocado. These trees not only provide beautiful blooms and delicious fruit but also add a touch of joy and satisfaction to my daily life.
A Community Effort
My journey with trees has been not just personal but also community-driven. I participated in a tree planting event for National Arbor Day, where we planted 23 trees in a local park. While the trees were provided and the materials were generous, it was fulfilling to see others get involved in creating a greener environment. This event reinforced my belief that tree planting is a collective effort, and everyone can play a part in making the world a better place.
Through my experiences, I've learned that every tree has the potential to make a difference. Whether it's through the shade it provides, the fruit it bears, or the beauty it adds to the landscape, trees play a crucial role in our lives. So, if you've ever planted a tree, consider the many benefits it can bring, and continue to explore the joy and fulfillment that comes with nurturing these living organisms.