The Earth is currently in the midst of an extinction crisis, a 2019 United Nations report found that about 1 million species face extinction in the coming decades because of human activities. Here in the US we have lost an immense amount of habitat and farmland to urban sprawl over the last century.
Native New Jersey Trees
Planting native tree species in New Jersey in your yard can make a difference in the fight to preserve wildlife. Native plants that grow in New Jersey naturally do a much better job of supporting birds and animals than foreign plant species. This applies to our favorite plant here at Blessing Tree Service: trees! So we’re counting down six native New Jersey tree species.
- Hazel Adder: is a perennial tree species native to our state that grows very well in wet soils. It is a fairly small tree that grows only 10 to 20 feet high. Every March, this tree produces clusters of small reddish-green flowers that become cone-like fruit. The fruits are filled with brown seeds that appear in fall and are a favorite food of New Jersey birds for their high-fat content. This tree would make an excellent addition to the yard of any birdwatcher.
- Eastern White Pine: a native New Jersey tree is the large Eastern White Pine originally from the Northeastern United States and Canada. The species is often described as the tallest in New Jersey because it can grow to 230 feet tall; the species can grow up to three feet in a single year. The species is a favorite food source of red crossbills and it’s a popular nesting tree for squirrels.
- Red Oak: this tree species is not only native to New Jersey it is also the state’s official tree. The species is famous for its beautiful fall colors and the value it brings to surrounding wildlife like deer, squirrels, and numerous bird species. The Red Oak is also a fast-growing species that can provide shade to your yard with its height and large canopy spread.
- Black Walnut: another native New Jersey tree that can reach a height of 130 feet with a trunk diameter of over three feet. The species grows best in moist but well-drained soil. The large species is an important habitat for large birds like owls and hawks as well as smaller ones like robins. The tree also offers food to squirrels during winter and is the host plant of the gorgeous tiger swallowtail butterfly. It would make a fine addition to a large yard.
- White Oak: is a species native to New Jersey and surrounding states that can grow 80-100 feet tall. It also has a wide spread of branches that makes it a gorgeous tree for any yard, especially during the Fall. The acorns produced by this tree are an important source of food for squirrels, turkeys, wood ducks, pheasants, jays, nuthatches, woodpeckers, rabbits, deer, and other species.
- American Holly: is a tree native to New Jersey with deep green leaves that remain vibrant throughout the year. The American Holly can grow up to 50 feet and is often used in Christmas decorations. The bright red berries of this tree are also a favorite for songbirds, grouse, quail, and wild turkeys.
Blessing Tree Service
Whatever tree species you decide to plant on your property please reach out to Blessing Tree Service for all of your tree care and management needs!
