Tree Selection and Placement
Understanding the important issues in choosing a tree to plant such as location, intended function, region, hardiness zone, and common pests. Tree selection and placement are both important decisions homeowners need to make when they are landscaping a new home or when they are replacing a tree.
One of the most common questions asked is “What type of tree should I plant?” In order to answer this there are some factors to consider.
- What function will it serve? Large, healthy trees will increase your property’s value when they have adequate room, but the opposite occurs when the trees become crowded and overgrown.
- Why are you planting the tree? Deciduous shade trees offer shade in the summer while allowing the sun to warm during the winter months. An ornamental tree displays beautiful flowers or fruit. Street trees decrease pavement glare.
- Is a small, medium, or large tree best suited for the space and location? Select the right shape to complement what you want to do. Reduce maintenance costs and enjoy the long term benefits of your tree when you choose right to begin with. Do overhead or below ground utilities preclude planting a large, growing tree? If there isn’t the room you aren’t going to want to plant a large tree. Consider the surroundings.
- What are the site conditions? Select a tree that will thrive in the conditions. Consider soil conditions, sun and wind exposure, drainage, hardiness, space constraints, human activity, clearance that’s needed, etc.
- What are the soil conditions? In urban areas soil is often disturbed, compacted, shallow and subject to drought. Keep this in mind when choosing your trees. Is the soil acidic or alkaline – choose your trees accordingly.
Once these questions have answers you’ll be able to easily decide what tree is best.