The time has finally come to plant a new tree in your yard. But before you make a purchase, it’s important to take your time during the selection process. It could be that you want a new tree for added shade or privacy. On the other hand, maybe you imagine a tree complementing your garden. Once you figure out why you want a tree, it’s time to consider growth rate. Did you know that slow-growing species tend to live longer? That said, maybe time isn’t on your side and you need a fast-grower to establish shade for flowers. With all this in mind, it’s safe to say that selecting the perfect tree shouldn’t be rushed. Keep reading as we help you pick the tree that makes the most sense for your space.
- Pick between deciduous or evergreen – Here’s a quick refresher from science class back in the day: Deciduous trees lose their leaves in the fall, whereas evergreens retain their foliage year-round. Both make great choices in urban settings. If you can handle your tree being bare in the winter, you will certainly be rewarded the rest of the year with brilliant colors from deciduous trees. That said, evergreens look hearty and beautiful whether it’s hot or cold.
- Check the tree’s zone rating – Some trees thrive in rich, moist, woodsy soil that’s more acidic. Others do best in more alkaline soil that’s drier because it’s not as rich in the moisture-holding organic matter. This where the tree’s zone rating comes into play. Do yourself a favor and double-check this so you’re aware of the tree’s hardiness before making a final decision. Check out this article from Better Homes & Gardens for additional information.
- Know the potential cons – A tree can breathe new life into a dreary yard. But by no means are trees without their liabilities. Some are weedy while others are messy. Some are even dangerous for homes with children. Remember, though, that if you choose the right spot for some of these less than desired varieties, you should be able to overlook the tree’s faults.
Now we can get into the specific types of trees:
- Ornamental – Do you mainly just want a tree that looks great in your yard? If that’s the case, the ornamental variety makes the most sense. Species range from Japanese maples and crabapples to redbuds and citrus.
- Shade – A shade tree is a great way to shield your house or yard from the hot Chicago sun. The honey locust, tulip tree, willow oak, and sorrel fall into this category. Take the willow oak, for example. This tree has narrow and pointed foliage while forming a fine-texture, dense conical canopy. The willow oak reaches nearly 50 feet at maturity.
- Conifers – Arborvitae, pine, and spruce comprise the list of conifer trees. If you’re searching for the best year-round choice of the bunch, look into planting a pine tree. While some pines may be brittle in harsh weather, they’re ideal for wind and privacy screening. Depending on the variety of pine tree, they can be hardy in a number of zones.
WHY GET IN TOUCH WITH PRO TREE SERVICE?
For nearly three decades, Pro Tree Service has been Chicago’s preferred tree care company. As your new tree matures, chances are that it’s going to require some occasional maintenance down the road. Whether it’s tree trimming or pruning, you can trust us for the highest quality of care.
We are proud to be cost leaders in the industry. One of the things that sets our business apart from the competition is our Best Price Guarantee. Simply come to us with any written, reasonable estimate and we will beat it by 10 percent. With our tree service, there are never any hidden fees or gimmicks. We even go above and beyond making sure you understand all of the relevant risks and costs so you can make the best decision possible.
At Pro Tree, we are fully licensed, insured, and bonded. You can feel comfortable knowing we are legally incorporated and carry commercial general liability, workman’s compensation, as well as required bonds and licenses.
In addition trimming and pruning, we offer tree removal, stump removal, and land clearing. Call now to request an estimate.