How to choose a tree

by Lynn Rodell
Tuesday, May 6, 2008 2:32 PM MDT

Having just had to cut down what had become my favorite tree in my yard, a weeping birch, I am faced with a decision on its replacement.

Years of stress had caused it to fail beyond my ability to keep it n- one of those tough decisions. I can’t stand to cut something down that is visibly alive, so it was cut this spring before it budded.

I thought, based on my dilemma, that I would share the process you should go through when choosing an appropriate new tree that will fulfill your needs.

First, decide the type of tree you want, deciduous or evergreen. Matching your tree to your climate is a must, and this goes beyond simple zone designation.

The local Natrona County Master Gardeners’ office has a list of recommended tree species, which have proven to adapt well to our climate, annual rainfall (or lack of it) and soils.

The next step is to choose a tree which will fit in your landscape. That five-foot balled-and-burlap hackberry may look small in your yard when you plant it, but it could become a 30-foot tree when mature.

There is nothing worse than planting a tree in a wrong spot, nurturing it and then realizing it does not fit, due to some issues that you have not considered.

Many yards have beautiful pines, which were planted next to the driveway 10-20 years ago. Most, which have survived, have had to be pruned from the bottom in order for the homeowner to continue to use the driveway.

There are several conditions that should be considered before planting a new tree. Is your desired planting area close to utility lines (overhead and buried), sewer systems, your neighbors’ areas, existing trees and structures, sidewalks, streets and driveways?

Since trees spread both up and out above ground, as well as underground, don’t forget to also consider possible damage to foundations, sidewalks and driveways from the trees’ root system.

Consider how much sunlight your location gets each day because most trees require full sun or part shade at the least. Also, be sure that the tree that you select is tolerant of our native soil.

Many trees produce fruit, seeds or nuts, which drop, and this is another factor that should be included in your decision. Once these steps all have been considered, your tree selection now becomes a matter of personal taste.

Deciduous trees planted on the southern, western and eastern sides of your home can, when mature, help to shade your home during the summer months, but still will allow the winter sunlight to help heat.

Evergreen trees can reduce winter heating costs, too, by providing a much needed windbreak when planted on the north and west sides.

There are three primary types of trees available for purchase:

Bare-root or whips are trees sold with the roots exposed. These are very small trees and usually have not developed branches.

These should be purchased very early in the season before they come out of winter dormancy. The cost of whips is low, but they also will take longer to reach maturity.

Container-grown trees are sold in one- to 15-gallon pots for transplanting. These trees will have a well-developed root system and are more mature than bare-root trees.

Balled-and-burlap trees have roots that are contained within a burlap ball. These are typically the largest available trees. Depending on size, these may require specialized equipment to plant.

Inspect your tree selection carefully before purchasing it. All trees should be free of insects, disease and damaged branches with no visible wounds or scars.

Hopefully, your final choice will be a tree that will be enjoyed for many years to come, enhancing your landscape, your home and your entire neighborhood.

For more information on trees that are recommended for Wyoming, contact the Natrona County Master Gardeners at the Agricultural Resource Center, 2011 Fairgrounds Road, or call 235-9400.

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