Tips on Planting Trees and Shrubs
Trees and shrubs play an important role in the environment. They provide a beautiful accent as a means of landscaping to buildings. They are necessary as a means to provide homes to birds and other small animals. And, they provide a natural boundary on properties.
Selecting Trees and Shrubs
There are many types of trees and shrubs available for homeowners to choose from. Trees can range from fruit bearing trees to leaf bearing trees. Depending on the amount of sun that is available in your property and what type of tree you prefer, homeowners have many different choices. Some common types of trees include maple trees, oak trees and fir trees. Research the various types of trees and shrubs that are available, what conditions they prefer and the amount of care they require. Here are some resources on selecting trees and shrubs:
- Factsheets on Tree Species
- Tree Descriptions and Information
- Index of Common Tree Names
- Interactive Tree Selection Program
- Selecting Shrubs for Home
Site Preparation
Once you have determined the type of tree is best for the property, a location for the trees or shrubs need to be chosen. Several factors go into site preparation, including the amount of sunlight, location to other trees, location to buildings and other factors. Proper thought must be given to site selection to ensure that the trees or shrubs will have enough room to grow. If trees or shrubs are planted near other trees, shrubs or buildings, you need to be certain that the roots have enough space to grow. If not, the health of the newly planted trees will be in jeopardy. Here are some resources to help in site preparation:
- Site Preparation for Tree Planting
- Evaluating Land Conditions for Site Preparation
- Tree and Shrub Site Planting Guide
- Site Preparation for Revegetation
Care of Trees and Shrubs
Trees and shrubs are generally hardy and do not need very much care. However, during the early years of the tree or shrub, they will need help. Many times a young tree will need support to make sure that the roots take hold until it is big enough to support itself. Young trees are particularly vulnerable in windy, rainy and snowy conditions. These weather related factors could cause a young tree to parish. In addition homeowners need to make sure that the trees and shrubs are not infested with any insects which could do permanent damage. Here are some resources which will help with tree and shrub care:
General Landscaping Tips
Proper landscaping in the form of trees, shrubs, garden plants and other outdoor items can add to the beauty of a home, make it pleasing to the eye and good landscaping can also help the environment and even make a home more energy efficient. Here are some landscaping resources:
- Planning the Home Landscape
- Landscaping Your Front Lawn
- Landscaping to Save Energy
- Sustainable Landscaping
- Landscaping for Energy Efficiency
Trees and shrubs, if properly planned for, can add a lot to a home or office location. Trees and shrubs are an excellent accent to buildings that are pleasant to look at and also can be valuable