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Marlene Link talks about some of the factors that contribute to tree migration
No, the trees are not pulling up their roots and literally moving, but they are spreading seeds in new directions as they respond to climate change.
This is not a new phenomenon — it has been taking place for years. Changing weather patterns, long-term shifts in average temperatures, wind variables and precipitation changes are all contributing factors.
As saplings expand into a new region, older growth areas die. Evergreens are shifting northward toward cooler temperatures, whereas other types of trees, like deciduous trees, are following moisture and moving westward.
Three-quarters of common species in eastern America, such as maples and white oaks, have been shifting since 1980.
Changes in land-use, wildfire frequency and the arrival of pests and blights associated with climate change could also be contributing to the shifting factor.
So, in the future, who knows what unusual species of trees you might find growing in your garden.
Trees that currently thrive in the Carolinas, such as crepe Myrtle and pecan, may soon begin showing up in our local garden centres. As all gardeners know, there will always be new plants on the horizon to get excited about.
Why not join other happy gardeners and would-be gardeners at our next program night, Jan. 16? We will be enjoying a presentation on the art of orchids.
The Dunnville Horticultural Society meets every third Thursday at the Optimist Club Hall, 101 Main St. from 7 to 9 p.m.
Visit us online at our Facebook page or website, www.dunnvillehortandgardenclub.org
For questions or comments, contact president Deb Zynomirski at 416-566 9337 or debzyn@gmail.com.
Marlene Link is a member of the Dunnville Horticultural Society.
by Tamara Botting
Tamara Botting has been covering community news in Glanbrook and Haldimand since 2007. She can be reached at tbotting@sachem.ca. Follow The Sachem on Twitter, and Facebook
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