As the weather breaks, this is a time of year that I get a lot of questions from clients about what kind of tree to plant. This is a decision that requires careful thought because there are several factors that can influence the success of a new tree planting.

Selecting the right tree for a particular site the first time is the best strategy for a healthy tree. A healthy tree will avoid costly services down the road like pesticide applications, extra pruning, aggressive fertilizations and potentially removal and starting over.

So this Winter, I spent some time by the fireplace compiling a list of 20 trees that I think central Ohioans should be aware of when buying a tree because it’s an important investment.

Most trees on this list have been selected for urban adaptability and ornamental qualities. Others have been selected because they would make a great street tree. Read through these carefully because not every tree on the list should be considered for your landscape. I have also included a couple of trees that I recommend NOT planting.

Things to consider when selecting the appropriate tree are cold hardiness, provenance, soil quality and nutritional content, sunlight, mature size of the tree and planting site restrictions (structures, utilities, restricted root zones). It is also important to purchase trees from a reputable source.

If you are feeling a bit overwhelmed with the tree selection process, that’s OK – we are here to help.

Hire us for a tree selection consultation and one of our certified arborists can meet with you, inspect the planting site, give you options for the appropriate tree and recommend the appropriate Landscape contractor that plants high quality plant material and plants trees to industry standards.

Remember, choosing the right tree the first time is a lot less expensive than trying to make the wrong tree work. Let us help you do that – you will be rewarded many times over.