Proper Selection and Siting of Trees and Shrubs
by Bob Polomski
Whether you're replacing plants
lost during the summer or adding
new ones, selecting the right shrubs and trees
for your landscape is a lot like being a matchmaker. For a successful long term relationship,
you need to match the conditions
of your property with the growing needs of the trees and shrubs.
Good matchmakers do their homework.Start with the landscape. Analyze your landscape to
become familiar with its growing
conditions.
*
Identify areas that receive full sun-six hours or more a day; partial
sun-four to six hours a day; and
shade-less than four hours of direct sun a day.
* Look for
microclimates--areas with environmental conditions that differ from
nearby areas. For example, it
could be a
south-facing spot between two large rocks which
is warmer in winter than an open
area facing the same direction.
It will also be the hottest area in the summer time.
* Look up and see if power
lines, signs, or other trees will
obstruct your potential planting areas.
Evaluate the available space so
you can select an form will fit into that space.
* Look down and evaluate
the below-ground growing environment. Look for low-lying areas where water collects or areas that
receive runoff from the roof. In general, most plants
prefer well- drained soils.
Beware of underground utilities.If you don't
know where they are, "call before you dig." This
toll free number, 1-888-721-7877,
will have your local utility
locator company identify the lines
for free.
Now turn your attention to the plants. Learn a little about them to help you put them in the
right locations in your landscape.
* Determine their
preferences for sun or shade, their
tolerance to well-drained or boggy areas, as well as their watering
requirements.
* Know their mature height
and spread.
* Consider their use and
function. Use evergreen trees and
shrubs as screens, hedges, or
barriers. Save energy and money with
trees. The
afternoon shade of trees planted on the southeastern
and western sides of your home can
reduce temperatures inside the home by 8 to 10 degrees. Used as a windbreak,
they also reduce heating bills.
* Select trees and shrubs
with year-round appeal. These
plants look attractive across many
seasons with gorgeous flowers, fruit,
attractive bark, brilliant fall color, and unique branching habits.
* Look for easy-care trees
and shrubs that have few, if
any, insect or disease problems. Watch out
for trees that are magnets for
pests, such as willows and
silver maples. Drought tolerance is also
a bonus. Consider native trees and their domesticated
cultivars whose ability to thrive in your area for centuries gives them
reason enough to be a part of an
easy care landscape.
For a list of recommended trees
for your landscape, contact the
SC Forestry Commission for your free copy of the Urban
Tree Species Guide.
Be the best matchmaker you can be
by matching the right trees and
shrubs with the right places in your landscape. In the right relationships your living investments
will grow in value with each
passing year.
Funds for this project were
provided by the Urban and Community
Forestry grant assistance program administered
through the SC Forestry
Commission and funded by the USDA
Forest Service and the SC Nursery & Landscape Association. For more information, go
to: http://www.scurbanforestry.org/.