Blog
Native Trees of Coastal BC: Coastal Douglas Fir
The Coastal Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii var. menziesii) is one of the defining trees of British Columbia’s coastal forests, and one of the most impressive trees on Vancouver Island. These giants routinely reach 250 feet (76 m) tall and 5–7 feet (1.5–2.1 m) in diameter.
The Importance of Ferns in Forests & Ecosystems
They may look delicate, but ferns are strong plants that are vital to forest health. Their dense, nutrient-rich roots stabilize soil and prevent erosion, particularly in our wet, coastal rainforests. Young trees can benefit from the shade and moisture that ferns provide.
Native Trees of Coastal BC: The Pacific Dogwood
Spotlighting our province’s floral emblem: the Pacific Dogwood, or Cornus nuttallii. This native tree blooms with striking white bracts from spring to summer. Its ecological and cultural significance runs deep in Coastal BC’s forests and communities.
Wildlife Tree Habitats & Why They Matter
Wildlife trees are standing live or dead trees with features that provide essential habitat for birds, mammals, insects, fungi, and many other organisms. These trees support biodiversity by offering nesting sites, shelter, food, perches and more.
Native Trees of Coastal BC: The Arbutus
The Arbutus Tree (Arbutus Menziesii), also known as the Pacific Madrone, is as striking as it is resilient. A standout in BC's coastal forests and an icon of Vancouver Island, it thrives in dry, rocky soils and sunny exposures - often found on sun-soaked rocky bluffs and coastal forests where other trees often struggle.
Red Alder: The Original Pioneer of the West
The Pacific Northwest is an area characterized by, and famed for its gigantic trees. The weekend hikers to the full-time tree enthusiasts are captivated by the West Coast giants such as Sitka Spruce, Douglas Fir, and Western Red Cedar; and rightly so. These giants though, are standing on the shoulders of an altogether more unassuming and inconspicuous hero of the tree world.
Don’t Treat Your Yard Like a Logging Clear Cut - Spiral Pruning and Topping Trees
Forestry and Arboriculture: both industries manage trees, but the management plans are very different. While foresters sustainably manage forests for timber harvest, many of their practices should not be used on your residential property.