When a client removes a tree for whatever reason, I often ask if they have a desire to plant a replacement tree in its place. The usual answer is “what kind of tree should I plant?”
This is a difficult question for me as I probably have a somewhat jaded opinion, you see, I am an “Oak Guy.”
Like going to the animal shelter looking for your new pup, the final decision will be a tough one as you will want to take them all home, but you just don’t have the space for all those wonderful dogs…
My advice is to have a vision and plan before the trip to the nursery. Take a few pictures before and after the removal with something in the photo for scale. A Google view or overhead map will also be of great help.
With these things in hand while you are looking for your next new tree will make for a great day of tree shopping. Certain trees will just jump out at you like a puppy in a pen, and you will fall in love with the right one, we hope.
Some trees, just like some breeds of dogs, can be a handful to maintain so due some research before you pull the trigger on a tree you know little about.
If you are after a certain seasonal display from your new to you tree you SHOULD visit the nursery at that exact time of year and choose your tree at that time.
Just because it says “Aurea” or “Red whatever” on the label, some are golder or redder than others, and identical specimens can vary greatly, a lot like dogs if you catch my drift. When you view your new tree sitting in a row with all the others, try to visualize that tree in its new home. It is going to look very different in your yard.
You may end up with more than one and that is just fine, but keep in mind water, elements, temperature and space. This is most important.
Just because you love Great Danes, that doesn’t mean you won’t like a Shih Tzu or two!
Winter is around the corner and a great time to see the structure, if not the form as the foliage on deciduous trees will have left the stage for the year. Some trees have a winter color display as well and this may be the effect you are looking for.
Good luck in your tree shopping adventure, and as always,
plant high and often…
