fbpx

What to consider when planting trees on your property

By: Shelby McCullough| Published: June 18, 2018

If you’re a homeowner, buying new trees at a garden nursery can be overwhelming.

There are so many choices, between those that fruit or flower or that have a certain shape, growth rate or care requirements. There are so many factors to consider, beyond cost and what the tree looks like on the label (though aesthetic appeal also contributes to whether or not you purchase it, as well). Bring in another involved party — like a spouse who may or may not want to weigh in — and buying new trees is quite the decision-making process.

McCullough Tree Service has some things to keep in mind when choosing a tree, or two, or 10, for your Central-Florida landscape.

Measure for the tree at its fully grown height and width. It seems logical, but you’d be surprised how many times our crews have seen trees planted too close to houses, causing large limbs to hang over roofs and causing damage or injury risk. Trees purchased in containers can take upwards of 10 years to mature, once in the ground; try and imagine them as full grown. And steer clear planting anywhere near power lines.

How much shade do you want? Columnar trees, which grow upright and thin, for example, are better for narrow spaces, but don’t offer much in terms of shade, at least not overhead. Though you may have to wait longer until a tree reaches full maturity, a V-shaped or round tree is a better bet for shade. Crape myrtle, live oak and red maple are some examples. Planting these along exterior walls that face west or east — or wherever your home has the most windows —blocks hot sun and helps your air-conditioning work less hard. It makes sense to set up shade for hot walls first, as it will be many years until the tree will offer shade over your home’s roof, after all.

Keep it clean. The evergreen camphor, for example, produces berries that will rain down on your house, vehicle and driveway. Cherry laurel does the same, and produces unwanted seedlings in a home landscape. Keep in mind that berry-shedding trees can pose extra maintenance in terms of cleanup.

The expert team members at McCullough Tree Service are always happy to answer any tree questions you have about these important assets on your residential or commercial property.

Now Serving Maitland, FL

We’re thrilled to announce that McCullough Tree Service is now offering its expert tree care and maintenance services in the Maitland, area. Maitland, residents can benefit from our wide range of services, including professional tree trimming, tree removal, stump grinding, and comprehensive storm cleanup. Our team of certified arborists is dedicated to maintaining the health and beauty of your trees, ensuring your landscape remains safe and attractive. Trust us to bring top-notch tree care solutions to your doorstep. For more information or to schedule a consultation, call us today at (407) 734-5854.

Shelby McCullough

About The Author: Shelby McCullough

With over two decades of experience in the tree industry, Shelby McCullough is a highly skilled certified arborist and the proprietor of McCullough Tree Service. His unparalleled expertise and profound understanding of trees set him apart in his field.