In this post we share the thought process we went through as we selected trees for a backyard remodel project.
Tree Forms & Aesthetics
How shape will the tree take on when mature? What shape matches your home’s aesthetic?
- Round
- Spreading
- Pyramidal
- Oval
- Conical
- Vase
- Columnar
- Open
- Weeping
- Irregular
What color & shape will the leaves be? What will the bark look like?
A Word on Native Trees
A native tree is one that lives, grows, and reproduces naturally in a particular region ecosystem, or habitat. Native trees serve a vital role in providing as food and habitat for our wildlife, manufacturing oxygen for both animals and humans. They generally have lower maintenance costs and eliminate the need for supplemental irrigation, specialized fertilizers, herbicides, soil amendments, or protection from wind, sun and cold.
Questions to Ask
Basic Questions
- What is this tree’s seasonality: evergreen or deciduous?
- How tall will this tree be at full maturity?
- How wide is the tree’s canopy at full maturity?
- How fast will this tree grow?
- Does this tree flower or produce fruit?
- How much space is required in a planter for this tree?
- What are the best planting sites for this tree: parks, natural areas, creeks, sidewalk gardens, street trees, yards, wide street medians, small street tree?
- Do I have already have suitable space for this tree? If not, what are my plans to prepare the site for this tree OR what is an alternative that may be smaller?
- How long does this tree live?
- Are there any known diseases, infections or sudden deaths associated with this tree?
Home Preparation
- Where will I place this tree in my yard?
- What soil type do I have today?
- Do I need to amend my soil for better pH?
- Do I need to loosen up existing/surrounding soil?
- What kind of irrigation system do I have? What are my plans to water this tree during different types of year (day-to-day, drought, rainy season etc.)?
Growth
- Do I have the right growing conditions to support this tree?
- What is the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone?
- What are the water requirements?
- What type of sun or shade requirements does this tree prefer (as to not be considered stressed)Full shade—>full shade
- What is the ideal soil type (pH, fertility)?
- How much soil moisture does this tree need to thrive?
- What kind of drainage in the soil is needed for this tree to thrive?
- What kind of root system does this tree have? i.e. shallow, deep, invasive, spreading etc.
- How close or far away from foundations or power lines does this tree need to be placed to not do any damage to existing structures?
Maintenance
- Deadheading
- Pruning
- Fruits and leaf cleanup
- Fertilization requirements
- Deep watering requirements