Capitol Park Tree Tour

In May, the Sacramento Tree Foundation offered their Capitol Park Tree Tour, which showcases interesting native and non-native trees, many of which are legacy or mature specimens. In 2013 I visited Capitol Park in the winter, and was impressed with their tree collection (see Capitol Park in Sacramento). I jumped at the chance for a tour of Capitol Park, and dragged along my friend, colleague, and swimming buddy, Leslie (she is a fellow tree-hugger and nature lover, so didn't put up much of a fight).

Cockspur coral tree (Erythrina Crista-galli) from South America, at the Sacramento state capitol

We met up our tour guide from the Foundation on the steps of the state Capitol building on the second Saturday in May. The tour group included an eclectic group of citizens, landscape designers, gardeners, naturalists, arborists, students, and kids.

Mature Deodar cedar in the background, with a Seville orange tree in the front

We spent the next couple of hours with our guide learning about the Capitol Park’s landscaping history, which started in 1870; its trees, many of which were planted from 4" starters a hundred years ago; and the history of its monuments and theme gardens. I love hearing the stories behind the trees – like the Deodar cedars (Cedrus deodara) that came from the Himalayas as starters, along with their own gardener. Those trees are now a mighty grove towering 70 - 80 feet high!

Towering cork tree (Querces rubra)

We also learned about the Sacramento Tree Foundation, which monitors and cares for the trees, and offers various Tree Tours in the Sacramento area. We learned that Capitol Park has decided to stop watering its beautiful lawn in the summer to conserve water. One of the park naturalists that joined the tour expressed delight – the trees will actually do better without the continual water supply!

Collection of mulch for Mulch Madness in July and August

I recommend the Capitol Park Tree Tour for anyone who loves trees, or just a good walk in the park. Check the website for information about the tour, and other tours offered: http://www.sactree.com/treetours