What Role Will it Play?
The first thing to think about is why you’re planting a tree. They have a wide variety of functions and uses, and the role you need it to play in your yard will determine your choice of species.
The most common types of trees include:
Shade trees
A welcome addition on those hot summer days, shade trees are usually tall and rounded or shaped like a vase, with plenty of room to walk and rest underneath the branches. If planted strategically, these trees can also shade your home and help lower your cooling bills in the warmer months. For heavy shade, look for dense trees with broad leaves. For lighter shade, choose trees with finer foliage. Some of the best shade trees for Brisbane’s climate include Elm, Maple, Forest Eucalyptus, Poinciana and Ash.
Ornamental trees
The appeal of ornamental trees is in their gorgeous colours, flowers, autumn foliage, berries, unique shapes or interesting bark. They should be planted on their own, and because they’re such eye-catching features, you shouldn’t have too many of them. Think lawn settings, markers for entrances, or beside footpaths and seating areas. Start with species such as Crab Apples, Willows, Crepe Myrtles, Spring Blossoms, Ornamental Pears and Magnolias.
Windbreak and Screening trees
Protect your property from strong winds and storms with windbreak trees, which act as a buffer while also providing extra shelter from harsh weather conditions. Screening trees, on the other hand, can be planted in rows or groups to provide extra privacy and reduce noise. Both types of trees are an attractive, economical way to make your property more comfortable and secure. Look for dense evergreens such as Pine, Eumundi, Moreton Bay Fig, Water Gum, Weeping Lilly Pilly, Deep Yellow Wood and Lacebark.
Fruit trees
These will gift you with beautiful springtime blossoms and delicious seasonal fruits to enjoy. While fruit trees will generally require more pruning and maintenance, pest control and attention than other types of trees, their year-round beauty and edible fruits make them more than worth it. Popular fruit trees include apple, fig, lemon, orange, peach, plum, pear and mango.
What are the Growing Conditions?
Every yard is different and as such, has different growing conditions that will suit different trees. Before deciding which trees to plant, you need to determine your:
- Light conditions
- Soil and drainage conditions
- Climate
- Water restrictions (if any)
And Finally…
Once you have an idea of the trees you want and what your yard is suited to, you then need to make sure the trees will grow well in the space you’ve allocated for them. Don’t forget to consider:
- Growth rate and size (you need to have enough room for the tree to reach its mature height and spread)
- Canopy spread (how wide it will grow)
- Root system
- Maintenance requirements
- Likelihood of pests and disease problems
A tree is an investment that will last a lifetime, so make sure you take your time and choose carefully. And remember, once you’ve planted a tree, that’s not the end of it – trees require care, maintenance and attention if you want to continue to reap their rewards. If you don’t have a green thumb and would rather call in the experts, B & R Tree Services can help with yard work, pruning and trimming to keep your trees in top condition. Call us today on (07) 3264 6398 for a free quote!