Choosing the Best Trees for Your Yard

Trees provide powerful benefits that enhance our health and well-being and also, add shade, color, texture, and privacy to our landscape.  Whatever your needs or wants, trees are a beautiful, and valuable addition to any yard.

What Type Of Trees Do You Want To Plant?

Before you plant anything, you must determine what type of trees you want to plant.  Do you want a dwarf ornamental tree, a fragrant flowering tree, or a solid oak for optimum shade? Then you need to determine which tree will thrive best according to the soil conditions and location.  There are several trees that are native to Pennsylvania that will thrive in your yard for many years of enjoyment and benefits.

Select A Tree Compatible With Soil Conditions

The two most popular trees for shade are the Northern Red Oak and the White Oak.  Both of these trees are fast-growing and typically exceed 50 feet in height, with strong limbs and red fall foliage.  Picture yourself on a swing or hammock hanging from the solid branches while enjoying the protection from Pennsylvania’s scorching summer sun.

For damp areas, the River Birch is a good choice.  This tree is also a fast grower but does not grow as tall as an oak.  The river birch reaches 40 feet at most, grows well in both full sun or part shade, and its leaves turn a golden yellow in the fall.

The Blackgum Wildfire is a favorite tree for the birds because of its small black fruit.  They can grow as tall as 60 feet and are the perfect source for backyard shade.

If you’re looking to plant a flowering tree, the American Dogwood is a favorite of many, showcasing pink flowers in late April.  Birds enjoy the dogwood’s red, fall fruits.  It is called an “under-story” tree because they only grow to about 18 feet tall and are a shade tolerant species.  These trees are best for providing privacy in your yard.

There is no better time to plant a tree than on Arbor Day, which is the last Friday in April.  This gives you plenty of time to consult with the professionals at Artistic Tree and Landscape Creations to help you select the right tree for your space.