Start With A Plant Site Analysis
- Amount of space available for the tree to mature. This includes visible structures such as garages, sheds and sidewalks, as well as underground objects like pipes, septic systems and bedrock.
- The topography of the land. Steep hills, ditches and slopes are all an important factor in the ability of a tree to remain nourished and stable.
- Soil composition is a vital element of plant site analysis. Knowing and understanding how differences in nutrient makeup effect certain species of trees makes all the different when selecting the right tree.
- Your location and the recommended hardiness zone for the particular tree of interest is also an importance factor to examine. Just about every type of tree has a recommended growing zone where they will prosper best. Unfortunately, not all trees will survive in our zone (Zone 7a). Hardiness Zone Map.
- The amount of sun and shade an area receives is key. Sun and shade patterns change with time of day, as well as time of year.
- Other things to consider would be exposure to elements like harsh winds, sprinkler systems and heavy foot traffic.