Hardwood trees are a common choice for homeowners because of their beauty, strength, hardiness, and unique characteristics. They can provide privacy, aesthetic appeal, shade and can serve as windbreakers. Hardwoods are deciduous trees, which means that their leaves fall in the autumn before they begin to regrow in the springtime. These trees are common and suit almost any landscape. In fact, around 40 percent of trees in America are hardwoods.
While hardwoods are hardy trees, there are several ways to ensure the success of your new tree. Here’s a detailed look at hardwood trees and tips for planting and caring for these beautiful trees.
Common Types of Hardwood Trees
Many types of hardwood trees grow in America, many of which you’re likely familiar with. Hardwoods include:
- Oak
- Maple
- Cherry
- Sycamore
- Alder
- Aspen
- Birch
To choose the best hardwood for your yard, ask yourself what you’d like your trees to do for you. For example, do you want to shade a patio? Would you prefer a tree that provides habitat and food for birds and small animals? Are you interested in trees that produce sap or nuts? These questions will help you narrow down the best hardwoods for your home.
Before You Plant: Choosing a Location for Hardwoods
Choosing the right location for your hardwood trees will help new trees thrive and add curb appeal to your property. Each type of hardwood has its own unique characteristics that aid in the tree’s success at a new sight. For example, some species of deciduous trees prefer wetter sites and don’t do as well in dryer, sunnier areas. In contrast, others may struggle on areas of your property that gather more moisture. If you intend to plant more than one hardwood, you must consider spacing between trees to prevent potential stunted growth and damage.
Caring for Your Hardwoods
Caring for hardwood trees doesn’t stop at choosing the site location. There are several steps you can take to ensure the health and success of your new deciduous trees.
1. Weed Control
Like many trees, excessive weeds can substantially influence the success or failure of your new trees. Weeds grow incredibly fast, so you’ll need to deal with them before and after you plant your trees. Additionally, you can utilize pre-emergent herbicides and mulch to cut down on the number of weeds that grow near your trees.
2. Protection from Animals
Hardwood trees are more susceptible to animal damage compared to other types of trees. Many animal species eat the bark and foliage of these trees, including rabbits, mice, moose, deer, and elk. There are a variety of products that you can use to repel animals from your new trees. Alternatively, you can install some form of fence in your yard or a temporary fence around the trunk of your tree to keep animals at bay.
3. Watering
Most deciduous trees won’t need a lot of watering unless the trees are five years old or younger. Younger trees cannot always obtain an adequate amount of moisture, depending on your soil type and land. Therefore, potential watering is a factor you should take into consideration when choosing a hardwood. Irrigation systems can also work wonders here, but it’s recommended to use drip irrigation instead of sprinkle irrigation.
Designing Your Landscape with Hardwood Trees
Hardwood trees offer homeowners a lot of benefits and can change the look and feel of your yard. These trees require minimal care, but these care tips will help ensure the success and health of your new trees.
Are you interested in planting hardwood trees in your yard? Then, let us take care of the hard part! Book your free consultation today.
