Guide to Selecting the Best Trees for Your Home

Trees can increase the value of your property and make your home look better. However, not all types of trees can work in your backyard. Instead, you must carefully select the best trees that can grow well in your yard and meet your objectives. Here is how to choose the best trees for your home.

Size and Form of the Tree

The tree size greatly determines the functionality and potential maintenance costs. Therefore, you must consider the tree's shape vis-à-vis the size of your home. Short and spreading trees will work best for areas with overhead utility lines, while narrow trees can help serve as a fence between buildings. On the other hand, larger and taller trees may offer better economic and environmental benefits.

Function

Find a tree that can do the job that you want it to do. For example, you may be looking for a tree that can offer outdoor play space or shade. Alternatively, you may wish to plant a tree that brings more color to your homestead in fall or spring.

Growing Conditions

The hardiness zone of your area determines whether your selected trees can survive winters. Next, understand the growing conditions of the planting area, particularly the amount of sunlight and type of soil. For instance, some tree species can do well in heavy clay soil, while others need loose, sandy soil. Also, many trees require abundant amounts of moisture and all-day sun.

Canopy

When you choose a shade tree, know how the canopy will appear. The canopy is a layer of branches and leaves as seen from above. The main types of canopies are dense shade, dappled shade, and light shade. You also need to understand how the canopy will sync with other neighboring trees.

Debris

Different trees produce different levels of debris and can have an impact on the appearance and use of your backyard. The leaves of some tree species fall down easily, even when the wind blows softly. Some trees may even drop nuts, fruits, and seed pods on your lawn or patio. The debris may require regular cleaning.

Tree Type

The main types of trees are coniferous (often evergreens) and deciduous. Evergreens are typically massive trees that maintain their foliage throughout the year, even in winter. Since evergreens will block sunlight throughout the year, you can use the trees in your side yard. Also, evergreens typically grow fast and have soft annual rings.

In contrast, deciduous trees grow slowly and develop tight rings, giving them the name hardwoods. These trees put on an impressive show in the fall, summer, and spring. Hence, many people prefer to plant deciduous trees in their front yards. However, deciduous trees become dormant in winter, with the branches getting shorter and darker.

Here are the main types of deciduous trees:

•  Shade trees with large leaves and dense shape
•  Ornamental or specimen trees with interesting foliage and shape
•  Street trees that have a large and compact shape
•  Windbreak trees that grow tightly together
•  Fruit trees that produce nuts and fruits

If you need clarification on the specific type of tree, talk to tree specialists at the nearest tree nursery.

Growth Rate

Many homeowners will want trees that grow quickly and change the landscape. This is particularly true if you plant trees for privacy purposes. If you like trees that grow slower, you can purchase trees that are mature or nearing full growth.

Get Help

Selecting, planting, and maintaining trees can be complicated and time-consuming. An alternative is to allow a professional tree service, like Baumann Tree, to take care of your trees. We offer professional tree services at affordable rates. Contact us for more information.