It’s all about planting the *Right tree.

I run into a lot of people who are scared to plant a tree in their yard. Many people have been burned by a tree causing damage that was planted by a previous owner. This is one of my major pet peeves with the landscaping industry.

For instance, a Ficus should almost never be planted in an urban yard, they’re just too vigorous and the roots want to spread out because they are from the jungle, where there is room to do so! Same with large Eucalyptus, they’re wind pruned naturally, and you will get a branch flying off in a windstorm at some point, yet these two are often recommended by ‘professionals’ in the industry.

Another problem is planting a tree in a grass lawn, it causes the roots to lift up, they need deep watering. Trees don’t cause leaks, they find leaks. They can ‘hear’ water underground and will search it out. Water appropriately and avoid them having to search.

In my opinion only small scale trees should be planted in a suburban yard, that means ones that stay 20-30 feet at most. There are lots of wonderful options for a feature tree in a small yard. My personal favorites are the native Redbud, and the Pineapple Guava, which has grey leaves and can be used in place of the olive, less disease, and tasty fruit!

One of the huge benefits to planting a tree is the cooling effect. Planting a tree that loses it’s leaves in the winter on the hot side of your house will cool it off it the summer, and allow the sun to warm it in the winter.

Got a room in your house that is always hot or cold? Plant a tree outside of it! Simple and inexpensive solution to the high energy bills.

If the choices are overwhelming you contact me for a consultation. I can come take a look at all the situations that will affect your tree in it’s lifetime and help you to choose the right one. It will keep the next generation from having to deal with an inappropriate tree.

Save the trees! Plant the right one for the right spot.