Plant these 5 trees and shrubs to withstand climate stresses

Trees are master multitaskers. No duty is too daunting or tedious for these sky-scratching organisms. From soil stabilizers to water purifiers to air cleaners, temperature regulators, sound mufflers and steadfast creatures of beauty and intrigue, the mighty tree stands at the ready to benefit its ecosystem — and ourselves.

The current changing climate and its extreme heat, cold and variable rain patterns can impact the health and survival of both native and non-native ornamental plant species.

In 2023, the U.S. Department of Agriculture updated its plant hardiness map — a planting bible for gardeners and growers — showing a shift throughout half of the country. Lancaster County shifted one half zone from 6b to 7a, reflecting a 4-degree increase in the average low temperature.

“Almost all trees and woody shrubs are showing signs of distress due to our seasons becoming less typical than we have come to expect,” says Larry Wettig, Conestoga House and Gardens estate manager.

Some species that were once common in southeastern Pennsylvania woods now struggle in the warmer climate, says Kevin Zuidervliet, owner and grower at Octoraro Native Plant Nursery, Kirkwood. Among them, he says, sugar maple, quaking aspen and mountain laurel will likely continue to be stressed due to hotter, drier weather.

Colorado blue spruce has suffered from needle cast pathogens, a fungal disease that causes needles to turn brown and fall off.

“Climate change stresses our trees because the excessive heat and drought leaves them susceptible to invasive diseases and insects,” Zuidervliet says.

He says they can no longer grow certain trees like ash (due to emerald ash borer) and American beech (due to beech leaf disease spread by foliar nematodes). The spotted lanternfly is another pressing threat.

However, Zuidervliet says, nature is resilient. “Despite the many issues facing our environment, many of our tree and shrub species are hardy,” he says.

What to plant

The botanical garden Mount Cuba Center in Hockessin, Delaware, is committed to the conservation of native plants and their habitats. While they acknowledge there is uncertainty regarding the future climate, they have conducted research and analysis of species native to the eastern temperate ecoregion and have compiled a useful resource for folks striving to plant for a changing future. They suggest planting these.

Oak trees

They are a keystone species in Pennsylvania because of their role in holding the ecosystem together. White oak (Quercus alba) is a majestic tree with dramatic fall foliage. It supports more species of wildlife than any other plant in our forests. It grows well in full sun in well-drained, neutral to acidic soils. Give it time, and it will provide shade.

Red maple (Acer rubrum)

This highly adaptable tree can grow in wet to dry areas from Georgia to Maine. It has vibrant fall color and supports a plethora of insects that benefit from its early bloom time.

Black cherry (Prunus serotine)

Black cherry trees vibrate with pollinators when in bloom. This medium-sized tree is a great natural hedgerow.

Possumhaw (Viburnum nudum)

This deciduous, multistem shrub grows 6-10 feet tall. It offers dramatic fall colors, fruits enjoyed by songbirds, and a great source of nectar for bees and butterflies. It has huge wildlife value.

Fragrant sumac (Rhus aromatica)

A low-growing mounding shrub with brilliant fall color, it’s ideal for hot, dry areas like next to a sidewalk or under a window sill. It can reach 5 feet tall; dwarf varieties are available.

“The use of native plants is a powerful tool in society’s toolbox to help mitigate the effects of climate change and the impacts of our fractured environment,” Zuidervliet says.