How to Choose the Right Tree?

Trees are a beautiful and important addition that should be considered a necessity in your landscape. Not only do trees help to filter oxygen, but they bring value to your property. But planting a tree is a bigger decision than planting flowers, with many popular trees living upwards of 30 years! Not every tree is meant to be on every site, with many trees suited to a specific site and climate requirements.

Considering the soil conditions, existing hardscapes, clearances, and climate conditions, selecting a tree is no easy feat. To help, we've put together a guide for selecting the right tree for your landscape. 

The Function of the Tree

Various trees serve various functions (there not all just for show!). In the summer, deciduous trees provide shade, while speeding leaves in the winter to allow sun rays through. Flowering trees will produce vivid blooms while attracting pollinators and beneficial wildlife. Selecting your trees, and the functionality you're looking for can be difficult with so many species to choose from. 

The Size and Form of the Tree

Trees may start out small, but they will soon grow to be monstrously large. Consider where you will be putting the tree, as it may fit for now, but once root systems form they could easily cause damage to nearby structures. Trees will also form in certain directions or patterns which can disrupt powerlines and other utilities, so make sure to consider the full height when choosing where to place it.  

Condition of the Site

Just because you've selected where to put your tree, doesn't mean that site is ready. Now, it's time to consider the conditions of your chosen site and to test different requirements to make sure your tree will prosper here. Here's what you need to consider.

• Condition of the soil, PH
• Wind and sun exposure
• Constraints in spacing
• The ability of the tree to survive extreme weather situations

  

• The human interference and activity in the site
• Drainage
• Susceptibility to diseases and insects 

Buying High-Quality Trees

Trees are no less than a long-lasting asset to your property and when a tree is of high quality, the cost of maintenance will be less as well. These high-quality trees will provide amazing benefits as well as last longer in your landscape. Buying good-quality trees from reputable vendors means insuring the life of your tree. If you don't know how to connect with a vendor, consider a landscape professional, who has a network of vendors to suggest or utilize. 

How Professionals Help?

Arborists are specialized horticulturists who are trained and certified to care for trees. As experts in the field, they can point you in the right direction for tree species, functionality, space, and site.

Arborists aren't always easy to find, but qualified companies like Down To Earth employ professional arborists who are equipped to serve your specific needs.