Soft Landings

Arbor Day is right around the corner (April 28) and at the SBG, we love to celebrate trees–after all, native trees and shrubs serve as all-important host plants for ⅔ of all lepidopteran species. Butterflies and moths lay their eggs on twigs and branches, and larvae feed on the leaves. But did you know that over 90% of these larvae must drop to the ground at some point to pupate? That’s where soft landings come in.

Soft landings are multi-layered native plantings underneath trees that support the life cycles of countless insects. Providing perennial plantings from trunk to dripline creates a safe place for these insects to drop into. Fallen leaves and plant debris are left in place to enrich the soil and provide a winter blanket for many caterpillars and other insects.

Shade-tolerant natives such as wild ginger, wild white violet, wild geranium and golden ragwort (pictured) create a beautiful patchwork that’s pleasing to the eye–as well as to its guests! 

 So when you’re planning your Arbor Day tree planting–don’t forget the soft landings!

Photo: Pam Ford

Scroll to Top