City Cast DC DC's Foliage is Radically Different This Year
Nov 6, 2025
Marissa Lang and John Harden, both Washington Post reporters, dive into D.C.'s rapidly changing treescape. They explore how climate change and urban forestry policies are altering tree species and structure. Discover why D.C. is evolving from a hardwood forest to featuring more southern species and unexpected fall colors. The duo also discusses the impact of pests and weather on tree health, and how these shifts reflect the city's future as it adapts to its ecological challenges.
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Plant Native, Not Invasive
- Prefer native species because they co-evolved with local soil, fungi, birds, and insects and therefore thrive better.
- Avoid planting invasive species that can outcompete local plants and damage ecosystems.
Golden Canopy Rising
- The city is shifting toward taller, heat- and drought-tolerant trees, producing more golden fall canopies rather than fiery maples.
- These palette changes are visible especially during autumn and in newer developments.
Follow The Arborists' Playbook
- Urban foresters use regional analogs to pick resilient species by comparing D.C. to similar climates like Missouri.
- Rely on city arborists' maintain/promote/reduce lists to understand planting priorities.