Selection Factors to Consider
Tagged as: tree selection, tree survival
Selecting a tree that will thrive in a given set of site conditions is the key to long-term tree survival. The following is a list of the site conditions to consider before selecting a tree for planting.Soil Conditions
The condition and quality of soil in your yard can influence planting success. In urban sites, the topsoil often has been disturbed and frequently is shallow, compacted, and subject to drought. Under these conditions, trees can be stressed. For species that are not adapted to these conditions, proper maintenance can reduce stress and is necessary to ensure growth and survival. Many arborists will, for a minor charge, take soil samples from your yard to test for fertility and pH (alkalinity or acidity). The tests will be returned with recommendations to improve poor soil conditions with fertilizers or soil amendments (sand, leaf mulch, etc.) and will also recommend tree species that will do well in the soils found on your site.Exposure
Most woody plants require adequate sunlight for proper growth and flower bloom. Others do well in light shade, but few tree species perform well in dense shade. Exposure to wind is also a consideration. Wind dries out soils, and may accelerate drought conditions. Wind can also damage branches and leaves during storms and can actually uproot newly planted trees that have not had an opportunity to establish root systems. Special maintenance, such as staking or more frequent watering, may be needed to establish young trees on windy sites.Human Activity
The top five causes of tree death are often the result of things people do: soil compaction, underwatering, overwatering, vandalism, and the number one cause—planting the wrong tree—account for more tree deaths than all insect and disease-related deaths combined.Drainage
Tree roots require oxygen to develop and thrive. Poor drainage can lessen oxygen available to the roots from the soil and kill the tree. Before planting, dig some test holes 12 inches wide by 12 inches deep in the areas you are considering planting trees. Fill the holes with water and time how long it takes for the water to drain away. If it takes more than 6 hours, you may have a drainage problem. If so, ask your local garden center for recommendations on how to correct the problem or choose a different site.Space Constraints
Many different factors can limit the planting space available to the tree: overhead or underground utilities, pavement, buildings, and other trees. Make sure there is adequate room for the tree you select to grow to maturity on all sides and above and below ground.Hardiness
Hardiness is the plant's ability to survive in the extreme temperatures of the particular geographic region in which you are planting the tree. Plants can be cold hardy, heat tolerant, or both. Most plant reference books provide a map of hardiness zone ranges. Check with your local garden center for the hardiness information for your region. Before you make your final decision, make sure the plant you have selected is "hardy" in your area.Pest Problems
Insects and diseases affect almost every kind of tree and shrub. Every plant has its particular pest problems, and the severity varies geographically. These pests may or may not be life threatening to the plant. You should select plants resistant to pest problems for your area. Check with The Morton Arboretum's Plant Clinic for plant suggestions. Chicagoland Grows has bred and released trees that are more pest-resistant for our area.Species Selection
Make sure you use the information you have gathered about your site conditions and balance it with your personal preferences.If you are having difficulty taking these factors into account or making this decision on your own, contact The Morton Arboretum for assistance. The Arboretum's Plant Clinic will help you plant the "right tree in the right place." We can also recommend kinds of trees and shrubs of which you may not be aware.
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