Pseudotsuga menziesii: A Complete Guide to Using Douglas‑fir in the Ontario Landscape

Douglas‑fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) and its hardy cousin, Pseudotsuga menziesii var. glauca, are two of the most underrated evergreen trees for Ontario landscapes. Known for their soft needles, elegant form, and impressive year‑round colour, these conifers thrive when planted in the right location. The Rocky Mountain variety, in particular, offers exceptional cold hardiness and adaptability, making it a strong alternative to common spruces and pines. In this post, we explore where Douglas‑fir performs best in Ontario, the pests and diseases to watch for, and a few fun pieces of trivia—including why this iconic tree isn’t actually a true fir.

Pinus nigra in Canada: A Hardy but Imperfect Landscape Pine

Although Pinus nigra (Austrian pine) is widely planted across Canada, especially in Ontario, it’s not without issues. I’ve never been its biggest fan, but there’s no denying its usefulness in challenging Canadian landscapes where few conifers tolerate urban stress, road salt, or poor soils. Below is a fresh, Canadian‑context overview of its origins, hardiness, landscape … Read more

Picea glauca – White Spruce: A Native Evergreen With Exceptional Landscape Value

Discover Picea glauca (White Spruce), a hardy native evergreen ideal for privacy, windbreaks, and natural landscapes. Learn its care needs, pests, and top cultivars—and book a free landscape consultation.

Porcelain Vine (Ampelopsis glandulosa var.brevipedunculata): Why This Beautiful Plant Is a Hidden Threat

Porcelain vine (Ampelopsis brevipedunculata) may look stunning with its colorful berries, but don’t be fooled—this ornamental climber has invasive tendencies that can harm local ecosystems. While not officially listed as invasive in Ontario, it is in neighboring regions, making it a risky choice for your garden. Learn why you should avoid planting porcelain vine, how to safely remove it, and discover eco-friendly alternatives to keep your landscape beautiful and sustainable.