Changing climates are affecting all areas of the United States. According to the Arbor Day Foundation’s Canopy Report, 64% of Americans are experiencing the effects of climate change where they live.
For Massachusetts residents, this means increased annual air temperatures, even during the winter. By 2050, average temperatures in the Northeastern U.S. are expected to rise between 4 and 5 degrees Fahrenheit. For summer, these temperature spikes can mean increased droughts and wildfires. In winter, warmer temperatures can mean less snow and ice and an increased presence of various pest species.
Trees play a significant part in combating the effects of climate change. Read on to learn the benefits of trees and how trees help fight climate change.
Planting For Our Climate
88% of Americans know that trees can slow climate change. While planting trees is generally a good idea to help combat climate change, focusing on species that will flourish in Massachusetts' changing climate can help guarantee a longer lifespan for the trees, allowing you to reap the full benefits of trees. Here are some suggestions for tree species suited for the Massachusetts climate:
- Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia spp.)
- Traditional Hardiness Zone: 7-9
- Now Potentially Viable In: Zone 6 and possibly warmer parts of Zone 5
- Why It’s A Good Option: Once limited to the Mid-Atlantic and Southern regions of the U.S., crape myrtles are now successfully growing in southern New England. Warmer winters allow these stunning, long-blooming trees with exfoliating bark to thrive in more northern locations.
- Considerations: Choose cold-hardy varieties like Natchez or Muskogee for better survivability.
- Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora)
- Traditional Hardiness Zone: 7-9
- Now Potentially Viable In: Zone 6 and warmer parts of Zone 5
- Why It’s A Good Option: The evergreen magnolia has been historically limited by cold temperatures, but milder winters in coastal New England are making it a more realistic option.
- Considerations: Southern Magnolias can be sensitive to ice and strong winter winds, so they should be planted in protected locations.
- Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)
- Traditional Hardiness Zone: 5-9
- Now Potentially Viable In: Expanding further into northern New England
- Why It’s A Good Option: A spectacular spring bloomer with pink-purple flowers, redbuds have historically been unreliable in the coldest areas of northern New England due to winter dieback. Warmer winters make it a more promising ornamental for a wider planting range.
- Considerations: While generally hardy to Zone 5, cold winters in the past often caused dieback in northern New England. Climate shifts may now allow it to flourish.
While all trees do their part to fight climate change, not all are suited for Massachusetts yards. Bradford pear trees and other Callery pear trees are invasive plants with weak branch structures prone to splitting, especially during winter. Here are our suggestions for replacing them.
How To Maximize Tree Benefits In Massachusetts
Now that you know what trees to plant, you may wonder, “How can planting trees help reduce climate change?”
Trees are natural carbon captors, pulling carbon from the air while producing the oxygen we need. In addition to carbon sequestration, tree canopies also provide shade, reducing global temperatures.
Planting and maintaining trees in your yard allows you to do your part in combating changing climates.
At Hartney Greymont, we have ISA- and Massachusetts-certified arborists in Needham, Concord, Danvers, Cape Cod, and the surrounding areas who can help you select, plant, and maintain your trees.
READ OUR BLOG FOR MORE INFORMATION ON CLIMATE CHANGE IN MASSACHUSETTS
