Planting a tree is the ultimate act of optimism and sharing. It’s one way to help with global warming and is within reach of every man, woman, and child to improve the environment and make the world a better place. So if you’re thinking about planting a tree, kudos to you!
Beware though. Planting a tree should not be taken lightly. When planted and cared for correctly, young trees have the potential to grow twice as fast and live twice as long as those trees that are improperly planted.
One of the many services Traverso Tree Service provides is tree planting. Client’s often ask us what type of tree they should plant, and when is the best time to do so.
As far as timing goes, there’s a popular Chinese proverb that says: “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.” So, today’s the day! However, because we live in California where we have dry summers and wet winters, planting in the fall is an ideal time. The weather is not too hot, and the winter rains will help establish the young tree’s root system for its first summer in the ground.
As far as what to plant, here are steps to help you narrow down your choices:
Step One: Determine what you want from the tree
Knowing what function you want from the tree will help decide whether a large or small one is best for your needs and whether a deciduous or evergreen tree will be better. For example, do you want shade on the western exposure of your home from the hot afternoon sun or privacy screening from the two-story house being built next door? Perhaps you’re looking for something to soften the utility pole at the corner of your property or brilliant fall foliage and showy spring flowers to tell you when the seasons have arrived.
Step Two: Choose the right site
Survey the site. Look up. Are there electrical/cable wires overhead that will be affected by the tree as it grows tall? If so, you may need to modify placement or select a shorter tree. Look down. Is the root zone limited by hardscape on one or more sides of the tree? If you answered yes, you may have to look at smaller trees that are 20-25 feet tall at maturity as opposed to large trees that can reach over 60 feet tall and may have a root system that will quickly outgrow the space it has been planted in.
Step Three: Purchase the tree
A fun way to start the selection process is to visit SelecTree (created by Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo). Here you can check off the characteristics you’re looking for and a list of trees will be created for you (be careful, it’s easy to choose too many!).
Another great idea is to take a walk around your neighborhood and look at mature trees. Make a list of those you like or better yet, take pictures you can show an arborist to help identify the trees for you.
Search for images of trees you like to see what they look like in different seasons and when they are mature.
Invite an arborist to your home to go over your list, assess the proposed location and make recommendations based on their experience. Your arborist will be able to tell you what you can expect early in the growth process and 20, 30, and even 40 years down the road as the tree matures.
Once you have determined the type, chosen the site and purchased the tree, the next step is to correctly plant the tree, apply good cultural care throughout the tree’s life and enjoy your beautiful tree for many years!