Earth-Kind Trees: Caring for East Texas Landscapes

Trees are a central part of East Texas identity, providing structure to landscapes and supporting the natural world. Beyond their visual appeal and shade, trees lower home energy costs, absorb carbon dioxide, reduce stormwater runoff, protect soil, and supply food and shelter for wildlife. Native tree species are especially crucial; a single healthy oak can support hundreds of moth and butterfly species, providing caterpillars that feed young songbirds.

Despite their value, trees are frequently mismanaged through deep planting, excess mulching, improper pruning, and trunk damage. Unlike humans, trees do not heal from damage. Instead, they compartmentalize injuries by isolating damaged tissues while growing around them. Earth-Kind landscaping emphasizes selecting species adapted to local soils and climate, planting them in correct spots, and protecting root systems and trunks.

Free Educational Seminar Details

The Smith County Master Gardeners, in cooperation with Tyler Urban Forestry and the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, are hosting a free educational program.

• Date: Thursday, November 12
• Registration Time: 8:30 a.m.
• Program Schedule: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
• Location: Tyler Rose Center Complex
• Cost: Free and open to everyone
• Online Registration: Register for the Earth-Kind Tree Program

Program Agenda

9:00 a.m. – Tree Mechanics and Injury Response

Luke Alfaro, City of Tyler urban forester and arborist, will detail how trees function and respond to injuries, highlighting the necessity of proper pruning and damage prevention.

10:00 a.m. – Environmental Importance of East Texas Trees

Smith County Master Gardener Elizabeth Waldrop will discuss the environmental role of trees in East Texas, focusing on how native species maintain healthy ecosystems.

11:00 a.m. – Guided Walking Tour of Tyler Botanical Garden

Dr. Greg Grant, Smith County horticulturist and Master Gardener coordinator, will lead a walking tour examining native and introduced trees in the Tyler Botanical Garden. The tour will cover specific tree species, common problems, and local bird species.

Additional Contact Information

For science-based gardening information from the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, visit aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu or reach the Smith County Master Gardener Help Desk at 903-590-2994 or smithmghelpdesk@gmail.com.