Forest Health

Porcelain-berry is a deciduous, climbing, woody vine introduced from northeast Asia in the 1870s. It became popular for its tolerance of adverse conditions and its ability to provide ground cover. However, it is an aggressive plant that invades damp, shady areas such as streambanks, forest edges, pond margins, and disturbed areas, and forms dense mats that crowds out native vegetation.

Lesser celandine can be an ecological threat. It was introduced to the United States as an ornamental plant in the late 1800s. Although its sale was banned in Maryland in 2017, it may still be available for sale in other states.

Some providers offer services not listed in the Directory's other categories. These providers and their other services are listed here.

Planting trees helps your natural areas in many ways. They contribute to cleaner air and water, increase shade to reduce energy costs, and provide habitat for wildlife. Providers of tree planting services are listed here.

The health of Maryland's woodlands is threatened by a variety of invasive plants, insects, and diseases.

Maryland is home to a diverse variety of native trees, plants and insects, as well as some unwelcome non-native interlopers. Listed are some of the most common questions we receive about both native and non-native species.

Read about some of the changes to the Woodland Stewardship Education program and News and Notes about stories you might have missed. Our regular features include the Woodland Wildlife Spotlight and Invasives in Your Woodland, and the Brain Tickler challenge. 

The News and Notes roundup for this issue features a look at the upcoming schedule for our Woodland & Wildlife Wednesday webinars, how you can get your green industry business listed with the Woodland Stewardship Education program's online directory, the growth of women leading state forestry agencies across the nation, and the benefits of bringing back fire to help restore eastern woodland habitats.

Chosen tree management, previously known as "crop tree management," is a proactive method for encouraging selected trees in your woodland.

Harvesting selected trees from your small woodland can provide firewood, enable chosen trees to thrive, help to control insects and diseases, and more. Small woodlot tree harvesting providers are listed here.