Choosing the right tree for your business or property may seem like an overwhelming task, but it doesn’t have to be! Shopping for long-term vegetation such as a tree should be a process carried out with intention. This guide will help you choose the right tree in four easy steps!
Step One: What is the tree’s function?
Trees offer social, economical, and economical benefits. Which function does your tree need to serve?
Sandbar willow makes a great visual screen.
(Image Courtesy of ded.ny.gov)
If you are planting a tree in your yard, you may want a large, deciduous tree, which looses its leaves in the fall; these trees provide ample shade, and offer a windbreak which assist in lowering heating and cooling costs. A great example of a large, deciduous tree is the Sugar Maple, or acer saccharum (to learn more about The Sugar Maple, read our article here). Planting evergreens in your backyard is a great way to provide privacy, without a fence!
If you are planting a tree close to the street, consider a tree such as the Common Hackbery, or celtis occidentalis. Common to North America, this tree is ideal in providing privacy while visually improving the surrounding area. Planting a tree close the street also assists in reducing runoff, and decreasing the glare from the pavement!
Step Two: What size and form is your ideal tree?
Diagram Courtesy of www.dot.ny.gov
Is your ideal tree a low, spreading tree, or a tall and slender tree? When choosing your ideal tree, consider the maintenance of the tree which you are selecting. (Westchester Tree Life is here to assist you in the complete process of introducing a new tree to your yard or business. Our certified arborists are here to assist you in committing to a Plant Health Care Management plan for your tree.)
Step Three: What are the conditions of your planting site?
Image Courtesy of www.bocc.citrus.fl.us
The conditions of your planting site are important factors in narrowing down your options, when shopping for a tree! Your soil’s pH, sun and wind exposure, drainage, space constraints, hardiness zone, human activity, and insect and disease susceptibility are all vital variables to consider when choosing the right tree.
Step Four: Tree Quality Characteristics
Be sure to consider the quality of any tree you choose!
(Image Courtesy of yourleaf.org)
Determining a tree’s quality is not to be overlooked when choosing the right tree for your location. Qualities to observe when inspecting tree quality characteristics include checking to ensure that the tree has strong form, with well spaced branches, a quality root system to ensure a optimal growth, and a trunk free of wounds and damage.
You are now ready to choose the right tree for your location! Remember that our team of certified arborists are always here to support you in your tree care maintenance!