If you are looking for a special Christmas gift for someone interested in landscaping, “Trees and Shrubs for Northern Great Plains Landscapes,” is what you may be looking for. The publication is available through the North Dakota State University Extension Service.

“The publication contains many of the major species of trees and shrubs to consider for planting in the northern Great Plains,” says Dale Herman, horticulture professor in the NDSU Department of Plant Sciences. Herman and Vernon Quam, horticulture and forestry consultant, are the authors of the publication.

The publication serves as a starting point in selecting woody plants for home landscapes. It contains descriptive information and photos of more than 100 species and many superior cultivars.

“Trees provide many benefits and the reasons for planting them are numerous,” says Quam. “Beautification undoubtedly is the No. 1 benefit of planting trees, but there are many others, such as providing harvestable products, increasing property values, social and health benefits, and creating a sense of community.”

The publication is broken down into chapters covering various topics, such as the benefits of trees, growth above ground, tree form, general tree care, pest management and woody plant nomenclature.

“A large portion of the publication is dedicated to full-color tree and shrub photos with descriptions,” Herman says. “There is a general description of the leaves and buds, flowers and fruits, and form. Also listed are environmental requirements, uses for the tree or shrub, cultivated varieties available, related species and pests that may cause harm.”

Copies of the publication are available through county NDSU Extension Service offices for $23, which includes shipping and handling. Copies also are available through the NDSU Agriculture Communication Distribution Center’s publication Web site at http://www.ag.ndsu.edu/pubs by calling (701) 231-7882 or e-mail dctr@ndsuext.nodak.edu.

NDSU Agriculture Communication