What makes a tree “right”?

 

The decision to plant a tree extends far beyond the choice of species. It should involve several questions, actually a series of questions, leading to your final decision. Laid out on paper, it would resemble a computer flow chart, with each question leading you down a different pathway. Without the process, we often end up with mistakes and even damage, such as raised sidewalks or powerline interference.

 

We need to ask ourselves why we want this tree, what is the objective?  Is it for shade, noise abatement, windbreak, aesthetics, or to screen the neighbors’ rusty old Geo Metro in their driveway? This one decision really gets us on our way. It goes hand in hand with the next question of where we want the tree. If we want it on the southern exposure for shade, we’re probably looking for a deciduous tree that will be in full leaf in the summer but will drop its leaves, allowing for full sunlight in the winter. However, most deciduous trees are not good sound or sight blockers. For this, we look for some type of dense evergreen like an arborvitae or juniper. 

 

When we understand why we want it and generally where we want it, we then begin to examine the specific site we want to plant. Flag the spot, then stand back. 

 

 

Now that you have asked and answered a few questions, you’re getting closer to your species selection, but you’re not quite there yet. From here, we start with the big picture and work our way down to your planting spot. What climate zone are you in? This does not always solve your problem, however. Kansas is in the same zone as parts of Oregon and northern Washington state! Are all our trees compatible and interchangeable with each other? Certainly not! Look at your regional and local temperature regimes (highs and lows), your annual average precipitation levels, and soil temperatures at the time of planting. Monitor sunlight intensity for your spot. Are you trying to put a shade-intolerant evergreen under a large Kentucky Coffeetree? Not good.

 

I know you’re starting to feel a little overwhelmed; all you wanted to do was plant a tree. No need for anxiety, we’re here to help; no, really! The Kansas Forest Service has foresters who cover every square foot of the state. We’re as close as a phone call or an email. We’re experienced professionals who deal with these questions frequently. 

 

I guarantee we will make you say: “You know, I never thought of that.”

 

Garden City, KS

(620) 805 - 3923