Radiant Leaf Consulting

If your crew is working around evergreens and conifers, this one's for you.

This is one of 12 modules in Radiant Leaf's Pro Training program — and it's one I get asked about constantly. These plant groups show up on almost every job site, but they follow some different rules from everything else your team is pruning.

This module covers:
🌿 Species ID for common New England evergreens and dwarf conifers
🌿 Growth habits and why these plants follow different rules
🌿 Proper pruning cuts and timing
🌿 Species-specific techniques

If this sounds like your team, let's build a plan:
https://scheduler.zoom.us/radiant_leaf

Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua) is one of my favorite native trees to recommend to homeowners looking for year-round interest. 🌿

Those star-shaped leaves are gorgeous all summer, and come fall, they turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and purple. Often all on the same tree.

Here's what makes it worth planting:
🍂 Native to the eastern US
🍂 Full sun, adaptable to most soils
🍂 Hardy in zones 5-9
🍂 A pollinator magnet and caterpillar host plant
🍂 Seed balls provide a food source for birds like goldfinches and juncos

It does need space to grow, so site selection matters. But once it's established, it's low maintenance and rewards you every season.

Follow for more horticulture education. 🌱

American wisteria (Wisteria frutescens) might be one of my favorite native vines to recommend to homeowners. 🌿

It blooms in late spring with those gorgeous cascading purple flower clusters, and the fragrance is absolutely worth it.

Here's what makes it a great addition to your landscape:
🌸 Native to the eastern US
🌸 Less aggressive than Asian wisteria varieties
🌸 Supports pollinators, especially native bees
🌸 Thrives in full sun
🌸 Works beautifully on pergolas, fences, and arbors

It does need a sturdy structure to climb, and some pruning to keep its shape, but nothing unmanageable.

If you're looking for a flowering vine that's both beautiful and ecologically responsible, American wisteria is worth a serious look.

Follow for more horticulture education. 🌱