FLORA

Mountain Lakers take great pride in the beauty and diversity of the trees, plants, shrubs and flowers that thrive throughout the borough.  Red Maple, Red Oak, Scarlett Oak, American Ash and American Elm are among the dozens of varieties of trees.  Shrubs and flowers include highbush blueberry and sweet pepperbush, azaleas, feverfew and nine species of orchids, including pink lady's-slipper, spotted coral root and whorled pagonia.

In addition to beautifying our community, these trees and plants play a critical role in the preservation of our environment.  Trees create wildlife habitats, provide storm water and erosion control, and improve the quality of the air we breathe through the use of carbon dioxide and the release of oxygen.  In summer, shade trees can save up to 50% of air conditioning costs.  In winter, windbreak trees can reduce heating bills as much as 30%.

As urban and suburban development displaces many birds and animals from their natural habitat, it becomes increasingly important for landowners to provide mini-sanctuaries for them.  Having a wide variety of trees with high food values (seeds, nuts and fruits) is the single best way to increase your pleasure from viewing the area's lovely flora as well as its wildlife.

To learn more about the trees and plants in Mountain Lakes, read the Radis Report a thorough inventory of the flora in the borough, sponsored by the Environmental Commission.  Having a Healthy Lawn is a good way for homeowners to contribute in a very tangible way to the beauty of Mountain Lakes as well as the environment. The Mountain Lakes Garden Club website can also provide you with a variety of interesting material on our area's plants and trees.