Reforestation Services

Reforestation projects are often required when homeowners clear trees, disturb soil, or complete certain construction projects on their property. In Anne Arundel County and surrounding areas, permits for these projects frequently include reforestation requirements, which involve planting a specific number of trees and shrubs to replace what was removed.

For many homeowners, the process can be confusing. The county provides documentation explaining the requirements, but it can be difficult to determine what plants should be installed and how to meet the requirements successfully.

At Himmel’s Landscape and Garden Center, we help homeowners understand the reforestation process, develop the required planting plan, and install the plants if needed. Our goal is to turn what can feel like a complicated requirement into an opportunity to improve the landscape with carefully selected native plants.

Our Reforestation Process Starts With Understanding the County Requirements

Most reforestation projects begin when a homeowner receives documentation from the county outlining the number and type of plants required for their property.

These requirements are often based on a formula that considers how much land is disturbed during construction or improvement projects. To receive final approval—and sometimes to recover a required deposit—homeowners must demonstrate that the appropriate number of plants have been installed.

We help homeowners navigate this process by:

• Reviewing the county requirements
• Evaluating the property and planting areas
• Recommending appropriate native plants
• Creating a plant list that can be submitted to the county

This guidance helps ensure the project meets the county’s requirements while also supporting the long-term success of the landscape.

Native Plants Are Used for Successful Reforestation

All reforestation projects we assist with focus on native trees and shrubs that are well adapted to the local environment.

Native plants tend to perform better in regional soil and climate conditions while also providing valuable habitat for birds and pollinators.

Depending on the property, plantings may include a mix of:

• Evergreen screening trees
• Understory trees that support wildlife
• Shade trees for long-term canopy growth
• Native shrubs that provide food sources for birds and pollinators

Using native plants allows the reforestation planting to function not only as a regulatory requirement, but also as an ecological improvement for the property.

Some commonly used native plants include:

• Eastern Red Cedar
• American Holly
• Native Dogwood
• Eastern Redbud
• Willow Oak
• Red Maple
• Inkberry Holly
• Viburnum
• Itea
• Clethra

Reforestation Projects Can Be Completed Independently or as Part of Larger Construction Projects

Reforestation is often required for new home construction or major landscape projects, though it can also be completed as a standalone project when needed for permitting.

Some projects involve planting a relatively small number of trees and shrubs, while others may involve much larger installations. In some cases, reforestation projects can include hundreds of plants across a property.

Our team can assist with both planning and installation, helping ensure the project satisfies county requirements and establishes successfully.