By Lesley Rigney

Most cities in Johnson County, and unincorporated Johnson County, offer a 50% (up to $150 per tree) reimbursement for residents who plant native trees! Check out ContainTheRainJoCo.com.

Native trees are adapted to the local environment, which means they require less water, fertilizer and pesticides, which reduces the environmental impact of maintaining your landscape. They provide essential habitat and food for local wildlife, including birds, insects and mammals, supporting biodiversity.

Unfortunately, many species available in local nurseries are non-native species from other countries. Planting these varieties disrupts the food web and some become invasive pests that outcompete native species, degrading habitat in remaining natural areas.

Native trees are adapted to the local rainfall patterns and weather conditions, making them more drought-tolerant and likely to survive extreme heat and cold that this region is known for. In the face of hotter summers, trees can provide much-needed shade for both homes (increasing energy efficiency) and outdoor gathering spaces such as parks, sidewalks and bus stops.

Community trees also provide carbon sequestration benefits, making them a key nature-based solution for mitigating climate change.

The root systems of many native trees help to improve soil structure, reduce erosion, and increase water infiltration. This contributes to healthier soil and reduces stormwater runoff, which can carry pollutants into waterways. Native trees also contribute organic matter to the soil through leaf litter and root turnover, enhancing soil fertility over time.

Residents should take advantage of a free soil test offered at the Johnson County K-State Research and Extension Office (913-715-7000).

This will tell you your soil type and pH. Notice the amount of sunlight your planting site receives and determine space available for a mature tree, including height and canopy spread. Knowing these conditions will provide you the parameters you need to start shopping for your new tree.

A list of eligible trees is available on the ContainTheRain website, but there are countless books and educational organizations, including Kansas Forest Service, Missouri Department of Conservation and the Arbor Day Foundation, dedicated to this topic. It is important to spend the time to select a healthy and attractive specimen, ensuring a well-developed root system (avoid those with circling or girdling roots). Look for a straight and tapered trunk with evenly distributed branches and leaves. Avoid trees with any sign of disease or damage.

Fall is the perfect time to plant for native trees. Common mistakes include inadequate site preparation, planting trees too deep and improper application of mulch (no mulch in contact with trunk!).

Enjoy your native plant journey – the birds and others thank you for your effort!

Lesley Rigney is a water quality specialist in the Stormwater Management Program at Johnson County Public Works.