Over the past 75 years, Landis Arboretum has seen its fair share of bad weather. Just ask any of our plant sale volunteers! But weather is not climate – and, over those 75 years, climate change has certainly impacted the Arboretum. We’re observing increased storm intensity and frequency. We’re experiencing more extremes in periods of wet and dry weather.
These climactic conditions have also contributed to an increase in the ambient humidity, which affects a variety of genera. Fungal issues, including needle cast, are on the rise, and our pines and spruces are particularly vulnerable. Managing these issues has required a lot of work, including pruning to increase airflow in order to dry everything out. At present, we’ve focused on installing cables on trees that have been identified as having the potential for structural failure due to climate-related forces. Sugar maples (Acer saccharum) in the area have seen increased mortality due to warmer and shorter winters and decreased snowfall, but it isn’t an issue at Landis -- at this time.
Some plants at Landis have actually been emboldened by the changing climate. The primary invasive species Landis deals with are buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica), bush honeysuckle (Lonicera sp.) and black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia). Buckthorn and bush honeysuckles were introduced into the horticultural trade in the early 19th century. Black locust is native to the southeastern United States, but in our changing climate this tree has made itself a lot more comfortable in our neck of the woods. Buckthorn and bush honeysuckles have increasingly become invasive. They can be very difficult if not impossible to eradicate.
Landis represents the past, present and future of our beautiful natural heritage. Despite these climatic changes, Landis – and nature itself – continue to adapt. Here’s to another – albeit perhaps ecologically uncertain -- 75 years!