Longleaf Pine Forests Decline Threatening Southeast Biodiversity

Longleaf pine trees, once widespread across the southeastern United States, have drastically declined due to historical overlogging and unsustainable practices, now covering only a fraction of their original range. These trees are vital to biodiversity, supporting species such as the red-cockaded woodpecker and gopher tortoise, and depend on controlled burns to maintain ecosystem health. Despite threats from urban development, invasive species, and climate change, conservation efforts aim to restore these resilient pines. Additionally, flowering trees like the star magnolia enrich gardens while absorbing carbon dioxide and supporting pollinators, making them valuable for both aesthetics and the environment. Innovative horticultural approaches, such as grafted fruit salad trees, allow gardeners with limited space to grow multiple fruit varieties on a single tree, enhancing small orchards. For challenging clay-heavy soils, trees like the katsura provide shade and seasonal color, demonstrating adaptability and beauty in less-than-ideal conditions.