Designing for climate resilience: Plant choices and nursery practices for municipal success.

Illinois municipalities face increasing challenges in maintaining healthy urban forests and landscapes. Rising temperatures, intense rain events, and compacted urban soils demand plant choices and nursery practices that prioritize resilience.

The Case for Climate-Resilient Landscapes

Urban landscapes now endure more stress: heat islands, pollution, flooding, and limited rooting space. The solution lies in diverse, adaptable plant palettes and proper establishment techniques.

Resilient Tree and Shrub Choices for Illinois Cities

• Heat and drought tolerant: Honeylocust, Kentucky Coffee Tree, Ginkgo.
• Flood-tolerant: Bald Cypress, River Birch.
• Salt-tolerant: Hackberry, Swamp White Oak.
  Diversity is key — aim for no more than 10% of any one species in a municipal inventory.

Nursery Practices that Improve Performance

A reputable wholesale nursery will:

• Grow plants with regular root pruning for dense, fibrous root systems.
• Time harvests to avoid stress and improve survival rates.
• Acclimate stock to local conditions before shipment.

Partnership with Woody’s Plant Nursery

Woody’s can assist municipalities with:

• Pre-bid consultations to align species lists with climate resilience goals.
• Coordinated delivery for phased planting projects.
• On-site planting support for key installations.

Municipal Procurement Checklist

• Require proof of pest-free certification.
• Include root flare visibility in inspection criteria.
• Ask for detailed irrigation recommendations for post-installation care.