Selecting The Right Trees For The Right Spaces

The #1 question I get asked every year is "We want to plant some trees (or shrubs) but we don't know where they should go? Usually followed up with a Pinterest inspo picture or AI-generated perfect photos of trees that don't actually exist or grow around here. 

I want to give just a quick breakdown of what I look for on each property to help suggest ideas so homeowners aren't blindly throwing trees or shrubs in their yard...because when that happens, they call us about 3 years later asking us to remove said trees. 

First, avoid sites where your tree will cause problems or get damaged;

• Plant your tree AT LEAST 15 feet from any building
• Away from roofs with heavy sliding snow in winter
• Away from neighbors property to avoid future arguments
• Avoid areas where you currently enjoy your views from the property, better to use trees to block the undesirable views
• Avoid planting in areas where you enjoy the sunlight
• Avoid planting certain types of trees that deer and rabbits graze on if you know they frequently pass through your yard.

Take a good look at your property and analyze your soil health, exposure to sun, wind, human activity, drainage, while keeping your hardiness zone and space constraints in mind, Most tree roots grow in the top 4-18 inches of soil, often extending past the drip line. The mature width of a mature tree is sometimes more important than the height when considering location. 

Beneficial Locations to Plant:

• Trees with fruits, nuts, berries provide food for humans, birds and other animals. Are you ok with attracting wildlife?
• Evergreen trees planted between a building and wind exposed areas will help create a windbreak, especially for bitter cold winter winds and storms
• Trees with large canopies intercept rain and snowfall, which helps reduce runoff and erosion
• Deciduous trees planted on the south and west sides allow sunshine through in the winter and provide shade in the summer. Yay for cheaper electric bills!
• Low growing deciduous or herbaceous perennials and groundcovers can help reduce danger posed by wildfires to homes
• Small ornamental trees planted along streets improve property value and neighborhood aesthetics
  
  

Hopefully this guide helps you when tree shopping this spring!