During the winter months, residents of Chico and other California cities known for their trees have a unique opportunity to observe the structure of deciduous trees. Without leaves, the branches of species such as sycamores, ginkgos, crepe myrtles, and various oaks are visible in detail.
Chico is recognized as an official City of Trees, joining others like Sacramento—designated the first City of Trees in 1855—Woodland, Burlingame, Arcadia, and Goleta. The diversity among local tree species is notable given the region’s climate requirements: trees must withstand both cool wet winters and hot dry summers.
Among Chico’s street trees are the Western Sycamore (Platanus racemosa), American Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis), Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba), and Crepe Myrtle (Lagerstroemia). The Valley oak (Quercus lobata) stands out for its distinctive branch patterns. “The Valley oak is easily distinguished by the craggy, gnarly shape of its branches that sometimes take the oddest sideways direction. This is attributed to the fact that they are fast growing. If they meet an obstacle, they quickly find a way around it. They look like the kind of trees that would grow in the forest where Hansel and Gretel get lost,” wrote Annie Ryder.
Valley oaks can be found throughout Chico neighborhoods, including on the Chico State Campus, in Bidwell Park, along highways and schools, and on routes such as Skyway from Chico to Paradise. These oaks have been present since before European settlement and can live up to 600 years. Their numbers have declined due to land clearing for agriculture and development.
“The Valley oak is of benefit to both people and wildlife. In the heat of summer their widespread branches provide precious cool and shade. They are homes for birds and squirrels. Their acorns were of great value as a nutritional source to native peoples as well as local wildlife,” Ryder noted.
Agricultural lands surrounding Chico feature extensive orchards with fruit and nut trees. Almonds are a primary crop in Butte County orchards but walnuts are becoming more common. Almond blossoms appear early each year while peach and plum orchards also contribute seasonal blooms.
UC Master Gardeners of Butte County will offer free winter-related garden talks at Chapman Park Teaching Garden on February 7th in partnership with Chico Area Recreation and Park District (CARD). Registration is required for these sessions covering topics such as garden planning guides, winter planting, composting, and plant protection during cold weather.
Additionally, a Spring Workshop Series begins February 3rd with a session on seed starting; this series includes 17 workshops running through early June on various gardening topics.
“UC Master Gardeners of Butte County are part of the University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE) system,” Ryder explained. Information about upcoming events or gardening assistance can be found on their website or by contacting their hotline via email or phone.
