Choices, Choices

This Spring, Select The Right Tree For Each Location

Selection of trees depends on the desired effect and the purpose trees will satisfy in the landscape. Will they attract birds

to the area? Shade a patio? Screen an unsightly view? Enhance the view of the home? Identify an entrance or exit? Trees

should provide contrast and relief from surrounding buildings and create seasonal interest in areas near the home.

What to consider when selecting a tree.

❚ Hardiness (ability of the plant to survive extremes of winter cold and summer heat)

❚ Mature height and spread

❚ Growth rate

❚ Cleanliness

❚ Type of root system

❚ Moisture and fertilizer requirements

❚ Space available

❚ Maintenance requirements

❚ Availability

❚ Ornamental effects, such as branching habit, texture and color of bark, fl ower, fruit and foliage

❚ Whether the trees is evergreen or deciduous

A local tree care company can help you determine which tree species both perform well in your local area and are

suited to your desired planting site. Arborists often do a close analysis of the specifi c planting site to determine the

susceptibility of resistance to environmental conditions such as:

❚ Disease and insect problems that may limit your selections

❚ The prior use of the planting site

❚ Soil conditions, such as poor drainage, and high or low pH

❚ The presence or absence of channelized winds

❚ The location of utilities above and below ground because their site conditions dictate plant choice and location

❚ The relationship of the plant to roads, walkways and security lighting

Is there enough space to plant a tree?

The space available at the specifi c site and mature tree size are important considerations and addressing these limits

will go a long way toward reducing maintenance costs.

It is generally recommended not to plant trees that will grow 25 feet or taller under overhead power lines. Do not forget

the underground utilities. Out of site does not mean that they will not have to be serviced at some point. Permanent

plantings, such as trees, should be spaced to allow utility service. Ground-level utility structures, such as transformers

and individual service connections, require space to be serviced. A minimum of 10 feet clearance after the tree has

grown to maturity will help avoid any possible electrical hazards.

Where to plant?

Community ordinances may restrict planting of trees near power lines, parking strips, street lights, sewers, traffi c

control signs and signals, sidewalks and property lines. Municipalities may require planting permits for trees planted

on city property. City codes often require that trees on city property be maintained by the city, so citizens planting on

improper selection can cause problems for themselves for and the municipality.

519 Washington Avenue

Chestertown, MD 21620

1-800-427-4890

www.pardoes.us