Tree Planting Guide: Right Tree, Right Place

Professional Tree Planting Advice from ISA Certified Arborists

Although we no longer plant trees ourselves, our ISA Certified Arborists have compiled this comprehensive guide to help you make informed decisions for your landscape. For all your tree planting needs, we highly recommend our trusted partners at Heidrich's Colorado Tree Farm and Nursery, who share our commitment to proper tree selection and placement.

Why "Right Tree, Right Place" Matters

Selecting the appropriate tree for your specific location is the foundation of successful landscaping. As experienced tree care professionals, we've witnessed countless problems that could have been prevented with proper initial planning:

• Trees planted too close to structures causing foundation damage

• Species unsuited to Colorado's climate requiring excessive maintenance

• Poor placement leading to utility conflicts and safety hazards

• Improper spacing creating competition between trees and stunted growth

Careful planning before planting can prevent these issues and ensure your trees thrive for generations.

Factors to Consider When Selecting Trees

Site Evaluation

Before selecting any tree, evaluate your planting site for these critical factors:

• Available Space: Consider both the tree's mature height and canopy spread

• Soil Conditions: Colorado soils vary widely in composition, pH, and drainage

• Sun Exposure: Most trees require full sun, but some tolerate partial shade

• Moisture Availability: Consider your irrigation capabilities and local water restrictions

• Existing Features: Note proximity to buildings, utilities, walkways, and other landscape elements

Tree Characteristics

Our ISA Certified Arborists recommend evaluating these key tree characteristics:

• Growth Rate and Mature Size: Fast-growing trees may provide quicker shade but often have shorter lifespans

• Deciduous vs. Evergreen: Deciduous trees provide summer shade and winter sun; evergreens offer year-round screening

• Form and Shape: Consider whether columnar, spreading, weeping, or rounded forms suit your landscape

• Hardiness Zone: Colorado's Front Range is generally Zones 5-6; mountain communities may be Zones 3-4

• Drought Tolerance: Native and adapted species often require less supplemental water

• Maintenance Requirements: Consider fruit, leaf, and branch debris when selecting placement

• Pest and Disease Resistance: Some species are more susceptible to regional problems

Benefits of Strategic Tree Placement

Energy Efficiency

Properly placed trees can reduce your home's energy consumption by 20-25%:

• Plant deciduous trees on the south and west sides of your home for summer shade

• Place evergreens on the north and northwest sides to block winter winds

• Shade air conditioning units to improve efficiency (while maintaining proper clearance)

Environmental Benefits

Beyond beautifying your property, thoughtfully placed trees provide numerous ecological advantages:

• Improved air quality through carbon sequestration

• Reduced stormwater runoff and soil erosion

• Enhanced habitat for birds and beneficial wildlife

• Noise reduction from traffic and neighboring properties

Property Value

Well-placed, healthy trees can increase property values by 5-20%. They create curb appeal, provide privacy, and demonstrate thoughtful landscape design.

Colorado-Specific Tree Recommendations

Drought-Tolerant Options

These species thrive with minimal supplemental water once established:

• Burr Oak (Quercus macrocarpa)

• Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis)

• Western Catalpa (Catalpa speciosa)

• Kentucky Coffeetree (Gymnocladus dioicus)

Front Range Favorites

These reliable performers have demonstrated success in Colorado's unique conditions:

• Autumn Blaze Maple (Acer × freemanii 'Jeffersred')

• Spring Snow Crabapple (Malus 'Spring Snow') - fruitless variety

• Honeylocust (Gleditsia triacanthos inermis cultivars)

• American Linden (Tilia americana)

Small Space Solutions

For urban yards or areas with limited space:

• Serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.)

• Japanese Tree Lilac (Syringa reticulata)

• Redbud (Cercis canadensis)

• Hawthorn varieties (Crataegus spp.)

Ongoing Care for New Trees

Critical First Years

The establishment period (typically 2-3 years) is crucial for long-term tree health:

• Proper Watering: Slow, deep watering 1-2 times per week is better than frequent light watering

• Mulching: Apply 2-4 inches of mulch in a ring around the tree (keeping it away from the trunk)

• Protection: Shield young trees from lawn equipment, wildlife damage, and harsh winter sun

• Pruning: Minimal pruning during establishment, focusing only on damaged branches

Professional Care

Once your trees are established, Tall Timbers Tree & Shrub Service is here to provide expert care:

• Structural pruning to develop strong branch architecture

• Health assessments to identify and address emerging issues

• Specialized treatments for pest and disease management

• Ongoing maintenance to ensure your landscape investment thrives

Contact Our ISA Certified Arborists

Have questions about tree selection or placement for your property? Our certified arborists are available for consultations to help guide your landscape planning decisions, even if we don't provide the planting services ourselves.