Backyard Reforestation

Plant a native tree with me!

We purchased an old horse farm in 2014 in Northern Virginia and we are working to restore the old pasture to native forest. Through trial and error, I have tried many different strategies. Areas that are suited for restoration and reforestation often have higher pressure from wildlife and limited water supply to establish plantings. Our reforestation efforts largely entail careful native plant selection, proper deer fencing and appropriate watering, in addition to invasive plant management.

I have also collaborated on the community-led campaign to restore an an old growth oak grove in the village of Great Falls, VA behind the historic grange. Decades of poor tree care by the county is being remedied now by allowing leaf litter to remain, a halt to mowing, mulching with wood chips, and creating pathways to deter people trampling under growth. I recommended the island approach where native plants are planted densely in a relatively small area and protected and watered appropriately. Once they are established the islands then become seed banks to jumpstart the natural regeneration of populations of native plants adapted to those local conditions.

I offer my knowledge and experience to help you restore your property also. Whether it is creekside slope, a flat field or even damaged areas- they can be recuperated with the right native plants and planting strategies. Please contact me at cultivatenature@gmail.com.