6 Best Ontario Trees to Plant in Your Backyard

August 4, 2022

There is a certain joy to planting native trees in our landscaping. Many native trees are popular landscape trees, not only because our climate has made for some beautiful fall displays, but also because you know you’re providing food and shelter for local animals and insects when you do.   

When you plant native species, you can support the local environment while also getting low-maintenance trees that are perfectly in tune with the environment. Here are six of your best options.  

1. Paper Birch  

It’s no contest; the paper birch is one of the best-looking trees for landscaping. No matter the season, the intense white bark of this tree stands out and transforms any space into a scene worthy of a landscape painting. Plus, it has historical value as a traditional source of canoes and other wood products for Canada’s Indigenous Peoples. However, you will need a lot of space to fit one of these into your landscaping.  

2. Red Oak  

This native oak is one of the best privacy trees for a backyard. It can become quite tall in maturity, reaching 18 to 25 metres and provide plenty of shade while blocking your neighbour’s view of your property. It also transplants easily and resists most pests, meaning it should start growing well and keep growing strongly until full-sized.    

3. Amur Maple  

This is the most popular maple tree for ornamental use, and even though it was not originally a native tree, it is now widespread in Ontario. It’s also one of the smallest maples and among the easiest trees to plant as it can tolerate almost all settings, including small spaces. The Amur Maple rarely develops pests and is an excellent addition to any landscape. The Amur Maple can be one of the best trees for small yards.

Want to create a beautiful backyard space? Planting native trees is your answer! To learn more about landscaping, contact our experts at Breakaway Landscaping today!

4. Crabapple  

You can’t go wrong with showy crab apple trees if you are looking for a small or medium-sized tree for your backyard. Some cultivars descend from native North American trees, although there are also European and Asian varieties. We favour the weeping and vase-like specimens, but you can get these trees in other shapes as well.    

5. Silver Maple Tree  

Few trees look as lovely as the silver maple, which flashes a metallic glint when the wind sweeps the underside of its leaves. As a bonus, this tree grows quickly. While it is widely planted as an ornamental, it still supports native animal life, offering burrowing space and abundant seeds for birds and small mammals. Silver Maple Tree is one of the fast growing trees for Ontario conditions.

6. Blue Ash  

So far, this ash tree is unaffected by emerald ash borer, the invasive species undermining the health of ash trees throughout Ontario. As such, it is a hardy addition to your landscaping and also a native species. It is a narrow but tall tree with glossy leaves, which typically can only be found in the most southern areas of Ontario.  

Interested in creating a lovely backyard space with native Ontario trees? Contact Breakaway Landscaping today for help.  

Share This Blog

Person in gloves spreading salt on a snow-covered surface with a shovel.
December 9, 2025
Compare rock salt vs. calcium chloride and pet-safe blends. Protect concrete, pavers, and plants while keeping walkways safe in Mississauga and Oakville.
A black front door decorated with wreaths and red bows, flanked by white columns and greenery, Christmas scene.
December 3, 2025
Festive, low-maintenance winter planters for Mississauga, Oakville >TA. Get cold-hardy combos, container and lighting tips from Breakaway Landscaping.
White yard waste bags filled with green and brown plant debris.
November 25, 2025
What should you prune in November, and what should wait? See Ontario-safe pruning lists, burlap wrapping, salt-spray protection, and evergreen watering tips.
Man shovels snow from a driveway, wearing blue jacket and jeans, near a brick house with a wooden door.
November 19, 2025
Understand trigger depths, response times, de-icing options, and liability clauses in commercial snow contracts across the GTA. Be ready before the first storm.
Sprinklers spraying water on a green lawn; sunlight creates a sparkling effect.
November 11, 2025
Learn when to shut off water, schedule irrigation blowouts, and protect beds with mulch and burlap. Ontario winterization tips to prevent spring damage.
Person wearing gloves uses shears to trim a green bush in a garden.
November 5, 2025
Quick November landscaping wins for GTA homes: final mow, mulch, lighting, hardscape fixes, and snow prep to boost curb appeal. Breakaway Landscaping.
A backyard with a table and chairs decorated with lights and lanterns.
October 29, 2025
Enhance your home's entrance with enchanting pathway lighting for the holiday season.
A brick house with a gray garage door
October 21, 2025
Learn how expert paver repair can revive your driveways and walkways for enhanced curb appeal.
There is a table and chairs in the backyard of a house.
October 15, 2025
Learn how smart landscaping design choices can build low-maintenance gardens, saving you time and effort while maintaining beauty and functionality.
A large swimming pool with a waterfall in the backyard
October 7, 2025
Create a tranquil outdoor space with beautiful water features. Enhance relaxation and aesthetic appeal.