Trees are an important part of a home’s landscape. In addition to aesthetic value, they provide shade, clean air, and numerous other benefits.
But if you’re thinking about planting trees in your yard, there are a few things you should know.
#1) Choose the Right Species
I know this probably sounds like common sense, but it’s still worth mentioning that you should only plant trees that are appropriate to your area.
If a particular species doesn’t grow well in your area, you’ll face an uphill battle trying to nurse it from a sapling into a mature tree.
For recommendations on which species are suitable for your area, check with local plant nurseries.
#2) Consider Maturity Size
You should also consider the size of the tree once mature. Some of the larger varieties grow rapidly, towering high in the air once mature.
These large species can jeopardize the structural integrity of homes, sheds and nearby structures.
This doesn’t necessarily mean that you should avoid all large tree species. Rather, consider its size when mature, and whether or not that size poses a risk to your home and/or property.
#3) Shade
How much shade (if any) will the tree provide when mature? This is a question you’ll need to answer when choosing an area to plant your tree.
It’s important to note that the time of day influences the direction in which the shade is created.
So, look around your lawn during the mid-day hours, taking note of the direction in which the sun is facing. Assuming you plant a tree in this path, it should create shade for your home.
#4) Contact Utility Companies Before Digging
Before digging for any purpose (tree planting included), contact your local utility companies to see if they have lines running underground.
It only takes a few minutes to check with the utility companies, but doing so could literally save your life.
If there’s a gas or electrical line running under your lawn, you need to know where it’s located before digging.
#5) Mulch Around the Tree
You can help your new tree grow into maturity by placing mulch around it.
Depending on the particular species and size of the tree, a 3-foot ring of mulch should suffice for most planting jobs.
The added mulch gives your tree additional nutrients while also protecting it from pests, erosion and frost.
The Woodsman Company offers tree planting, tree pruning and shrub trimming, tree removal and stump grinding as well as a tree wellness program.
If we can help with any of your tree care needs give us a call at 512-846-2535 or 512-940-0799 or
I’ve been looking at different sizes of trees, but I can’t seem to find the right one for my yard. I’ll have to speak with a professional and see what their opinion is. I’m sure that I could schedule a consult with a company, I just need to look around town for one.
Good info! I find that people seem to plant fruit trees in particular way too close to buildings and shed without considering their mature size
In all my years as a tree care specialist in Folsom, I have to say that my favorite trees to plant are fruit trees as they give back and we get to reap the benefits!