Of any single investment you make to your home that will appreciate in value, is planting a tree. Trees provide a multitude of benefits that include: shade, aesthetics, color, fruit, wood and many more. Trees can live for decades to centuries if properly selected, planted and cared for. There are approximately 60,065 tree species in the world. These tree species have unique mature shapes that include, mature heights and width’s that have the potential to grow into utility wires and other nearby structures like buildings. Additionally, each tree species has a specialized site and environmental requirement including: climate, drainage, nutrition, soil pH, sunlight and other factors. Choosing the right tree should be a well thought out decision, as an inappropriate tree selection can result in a constant maintenance problem or even a hazard.
What To Consider When Choosing Trees:
• What purpose will this tree serve? Shade, privacy or design.
• How big will it get? When planting a small tree, it’s often difficult to picture the tree in 20 years, as the tree can possibly be shading your entire yard. Unfortunately, many trees are planted and later removed when the tree gets too big for its site.
• Does it have any particular insect, disease, or other abiotic or biotic issues that may reduce its usefulness? Certain insects and diseases can be serious problems on specific tree species.
• What is the average life expectancy of the tree? Some trees can live for hundreds of years, as others may live for only 20 or 30 years. Many short-lived trees tend to be smaller ornamental species. Short-lived species should not necessarily be ruled out when considering planting, as they can complement your existing landscape.
• Leaf color or flowers and fruits? Some species bloom for short periods in the spring or fall as others may have foliage that is reddish adding color to your landscaping year-round. You should seek a tree species that provides a four-season value including, an appealing bloom and foliage color, exfoliating bark and colorful fruits.
• Is overplanting the same tree species a good thing? Some species are over-planted not only on roadways, urban forests and right of ways but also in urban landscapes as well. Increasing the natural diversity of tree species provides wildlife habitats and limits the opportunity for a single pest to destroy a vast amount of tree populations at one time.
• Evergreen or deciduous trees? Evergreen trees will provide year-round cover and shade. They may also be more effective as a barrier for wind and noise. Deciduous trees will give you summer shade but allow the winter sun to shine in. This may be a consideration for where to place the tree in your yard.
Tips On Placement of Trees
• Proper placement of trees is critical for the trees long-term survival preventing any potential maintenance issues. Invasive roots can lead to cracked driveways and planting large trees too close to your home can shorten your roof’s longevity, clog gutters with debris and damage the perimeter drains of your home.
• Check with local authorities about restrictions or bylaws pertaining to the placement of trees. In many cases, they may be able to provide you with a list of recommended tree species for your specific location.
• Before planting your tree, consider the tree's full maturity height. When the tree nears maturity, will it be too close to your house, driveway, other large trees or structures?
• Consider your neighbors. An evergreen tree may block the winter sun from your next-door neighbors. Will it provide too much shade or overhang? Most plants require considerable amounts of sun, as you should consider how the placement of trees will affect other plants. Will it obstruct driveways or sidewalks?
• Call before you dig. Regardless of your landscaping project always identify utility lines, as you can have your utilities marked by calling your local utility company.
Once you have made the proper tree selection, you can now begin the task of planting a tree that can provide you with years of enjoyment. It’s Just That Easy!