By TreesAreGood®
International Society of Arboriculture
Site Conditions
Choosing a tree for the right site conditions is the key to tree survival and reduced maintenance.
Soil Conditions
The soil in dense urban areas and new subdivisions is often disturbed, shallow, compacted, and subject to drought. An arborist can take soil samples for testing to determine which trees are suited for your property and may provide recommendations to improve the soil condition.
Exposure (Sun and Wind)
The amount of available sunlight will affect tree and shrub selection. Wind exposure is also a consideration. Some trees are specifically selected to act as windbreaks.
Space Constraints
Available planting space can be limited by many factors, such as overhead or underground utilities, pavement, buildings, visibility, or other trees. Ensure there’s adequate room to let trees grow above and below ground.
Hardiness Zone
Hardiness is the tree’s ability to survive extreme temperatures of a specific region. Research plants for their hardiness information in your region.
Human Activity
The top five causes of tree death result from things people do. Soil compaction, under-watering, overwatering, vandalism, and the number-one cause — planting the wrong tree — account for more tree deaths than all insect- and disease-related tree deaths combined.
Drainage
Roots require oxygen to develop; poor drainage limits oxygen availability and may kill the tree. Make sure the area has good drainage or work with an arborist to develop a plan to improve it.
Insect and Disease Susceptibility
Every plant has its particular pest problems and the severity varies geographically.
Visit TreesAreGood.org for more information and free, downloadable brochures.
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