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Trees and shrubs are excellent tools for conserving soil and water, storing carbon, producing shade, regulating temperature extremes, improving wildlife habitats, and ensuring that environments can adapt to climate change in the future. Here are some reasons why you should plant trees and shrubs in your landscape and how to do it!
As a tree's age increases over time, so does its value. You might not believe it, but trees can up your property value by more than $20,000 and save you up to $200 in energy bills from the shade cooling your property. Plus, you'll enjoy the beauty it brings to your home! They look especially gorgeous during the fall season when adorned in spectacular autumnal colors of red, orange, and yellow.
Trees capture rainwater and reduce the risk of natural disasters like floods and heavy snowfall that could damage your home. Using their intricate root systems, they remove pollutants and assist with water absorption into the soil.
As trees filter dust, carbon monoxide, and sulfur dioxide from the air, they improve the quality of the air you breathe every day. It's good for you and the wildlife in your backyard!
Birds and other animal friends can rest, nourish, and find shelter inside the trees you plant on your property. Trees are also home to squirrels, and watching them frolic is a great way to spend a lazy Saturday afternoon!
In addition to cleaning the air and combating climate change, trees provide everyday shade to your garden plants. In the summer, they are also ideal for relaxing in your backyard with protection from the sun.
Knowing when to plant is one of the most crucial aspects of tree planting. Visit your local garden center for advice based on the variety of trees or shrubs you select, and prepare for the upcoming planting season the following year. Most trees do best when planted in the late fall or early spring. If you're not sure, talk to one of our professionals for help!
It is best to prime the location well before planting your tree to ensure success. Make sure you choose a location in your landscape that is sensible based on the structures in your backyard. Think about the required growing space your tree will need to reach its full maturity. When you've selected a prime location, dig a hole twice as wide as the tree's root ball or container. We recommend that the hole be no deeper than the root ball.
Don't forget to look above and below before planting your tree. Before digging, you'll want to ensure you know all the electrical and utility lines in that landscaped area; you don't want to have to prune your tree excessively or deal with any problems down the road!
Ensure the root ball of your tree is aligned with the top of the hole, and keep your tree vertical. With good quality soil or soil removed from the hole, fill the hole in and around the root ball. We don't recommend returning grass and sod to the hole.
Once the root ball is in the hole, gently pack the soil around it until two-thirds of the way full, removing all air pockets. Allow the remaining space to drain by watering your recently-planted tree.
Lastly, care for your tree by providing it with the correct soil, water, food, and pruning requirements. Unless the soil is shallow or the trees are exposed to high winds, it is unnecessary to stake the trees in your landscape. Moreover, remove dead, damaged, or rubbing branches at planting; this improves branch spacing and strengthens the branch structure. Early spring or late fall is the best time to prune your landscape trees while they are dormant.
Visit us at Westwood Gardens in Arkansas for more tips on planting trees in your landscape!
