Plant the right tree in the right place
-
Marty Nelson
-
Native Western redbud (Cercis occidentalis), is a drought-tolerant and showy landscape tree choice. Photo credit: UC Regents
Planting a tree is an investment in the future. The practical and aesthetic benefits that a tree provides can last for generations. Planting a tree is also a way to fight climate change. By removing carbon dioxide and pollutants and releasing oxygen, trees make the air we breathe healthier. Trees help save energy by providing shade and lowering surface and air temperature. They shelter wildlife and support environmental biodiversity. Additionally, trees bring us beauty and enjoyment. Can’t we all remember trees that have held special meaning throughout the years?Avoid planting a large tree too close to a house where overhanging branches can pose a fire risk. Photo credit: GardenSoftA European olive tree (Olea europaea), needs space to grow to a 25-30 foot height and spread at maturity. Photo credit: Marty NelsonHaving narrowed your choices, you may settle on a deciduous tree to provide shade to the southwest corner of your house where there will be no utility interference. Choose a planting location far enough away from your house to avoid root damage to the foundation and anticipate a fire-safe distance of at least ten feet between mature tree branches and the roof or other structures.
Fruit trees provide shade in addition to flowers and fruit. Photo credit: UC Regents
You also need to consider growth rate. Fast-growing trees, like sycamores, can provide shade within a few years, but tend to be relatively short-lived, needing to be replaced in around twenty-years. Oaks, on the other hand, grow more slowly and are trees to plant for posterity. Some trees have aggressive or shallow root systems making landscaping around them more difficult. Don’t forget the messiness factor. Trees that drop considerable amounts of flowers, fruit, or foliage mean more cleanup and potential hazards on walkways. Finally, you want a tree that is earth friendly, one that is drought tolerant, fire resistant, and non-invasive. Native trees are good options for environmental sustainability.
When you have determined the type of tree you want, assessed the site conditions, and considered cultural needs, you are ready to find your tree. Talk with arborists and nursery staff. Visit parks, neighborhoods, and botanical gardens to look for mature specimens of trees you are considering. Websites such as selecttree.calpoly.edu and calscape.org offer tree selection programs. A tree chosen with care will bring you years of enjoyment.