Tuesday, 12 November 2013

Tree Selection

Tree selection is one of the most important step to building up our landscapes. Whether it be a new tree planting or replacing an older tree there are a certain set of questions you should ask yourself.

What hardiness zone do you live in? For example a palm tree from Hawaii will not survive out side in our could Alberta climate.

Why is the tree being planted? Do you want more fall color in your yard? To attract birds? Do you want shade or is it for privacy? 

What is the size of location that you want to plant this tree in? What is the soil like in that location? Is it mostly clay? Or sand? Is there good drainage? Remember a trees root zone can be 25% larger than the spread of the tree. Also ask yourself if there are over head or underground utility lines? Trees should never be planted under utility lines.

Some other things that should be considered are why was the previous tree removed? Was there a disease or pest issue? If so it is recommended that you do not plant the same species or family in that location. Another species would be best, it is also important to note the alternate species for the insect or pathogen. Another thing to consider is the tree species that your neighbors have on their properties. If you want to plant the same tree as one of the people in your neighborhood you are creating a greater chance for that insect or pathogen to take hold and spread.

Another thing to consider when choosing the future tree for your yard is the form of the tree. Will it block your drive way at maturity? Will the branches dangle down onto the roof of your house? 

 

3 comments:

  1. This is some great information! You covered a lot of great points. It is good to consider why the previous tree died. There is nothing worse then spending the money to replace a tree and it fails after it is planted. I like how you pointed out the different soil types. Not many people even think about what type of soil they have in their landscape. The picture is use full by helping people understand the different forms of tree. People have a tendency of just picking a tree they like, but don't understand the growth habits of the tree they have selected. This picture also gives people ideas for their landscape by showing them that trees aren’t boring, but can add lots of interest to a landscape. I am sure this article will really give people an in site on how to properly select trees for their specific landscape.

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  2. So many good questions that I know people never usually consider. Trees can offer so many things to a landscape but there are very few that will look into the future or heath of that tree. Another key point is the 'click' before you dig link. To many trees are mangled because they are cut after the fact to avoid power lines, or in the worst case there is injury to plant, person, or property due to the lack of foresight. The only thing I would add though is maybe some more answers to the questions, use examples or links to show good choices that can be made. Other wise another great blog entry by Arbor Gals! Thanks for the read!

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  3. Good information, but I do agree with Miss Eternal Earth, more answers could be given, even in the form of pictures that show great placements versus poor planned executions. try to include a concluding paragraph in your writing, we want to know that we will hear from you again next week! :)

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