Choosing the Right Tree for Your Landscape
It important for you to understand issues related to
choosing trees to plant, such as the intended function, common pests, where you
are planting, hardiness zones and best placement alternatives. Two of the most important
decisions you will make as a homeowner is tree selection and tree placement.
When you match the tree to the site both the tree and you as the homeowner
benefit.
Tree Function
Large, healthy trees will increase the value of your
property and make your outdoor space more pleasant. Deciduous shade trees lose
their leaves in the fall so during the summer it provides you with relief from
the heat and shade from the sun, while in the winter it lets the sun warm your
home. Evergreens have dense foliage that is there all year round and provides a
screening for privacy or windbreak. Ornamental trees display beautiful flowers,
bark, leaves, or fruit. Fruit trees can produce food for you and local
wildlife. Planting street trees reduces pavement glare, runoff, adds oxygen to
the air you breathe, and filters out pollutants, while improving the appearance
of your property and the neighborhood.
Size and Shape
Selecting the right shape to complement the desired function
can reduce your maintenance costs significantly and increase the value your
tree adds to your landscape. Mature tree sizes determines the benefits you will
receive. Usually, larger trees provide the greatest environmental and economic
value. You can choose from hundreds of different tree shapes and size
combination depending on what site restrictions you have.
Site Conditions
Choose trees that will thrive in your site conditions.
Consider soil conditions, drainage, exposure to wind and sun, space
constraints, human activity, hardiness zone, insect/disease susceptibility. All
of these components play an important role in making the right tree choices for
your landscaping.