Right Tree, Right Space
Tree planting on a commercial property is a great way to enhance its value and increase curb appeal, but planting trees without ample room to grow could put residents, pedestrians, structures, and landscape assets at risk.
With the proper planning, property managers and landscape professionals will be able to choose the most advantageous space for any tree planting project.
Trees planted in tight quarters could end up less healthy than others due to competition for sunlight, inadequate moisture, unfavorable soil type, and little room to grow and fully mature.
Commercial properties could face the following hazards:
• Trees encroaching on other trees or buildings
• Gutters being filled with leaves
• Need for costly premature takedowns
• Ornamentals blocking windows and sight lines, and resulting in moisture-related issues around structures (mold, mildew, excess moss or algae)
Consider what type of soil the property has.
It’s critical to the future health of your trees to determine what soil is present on your landscape, and which trees will thrive there. Many trees benefit from loam soil which is full of nutrients, while some trees prefer a more clay-like and dense soil, and others a sandy soil.
How much sun exposure does this area receive?
Trees must receive adequate sunlight in order to become the best version of themselves! If planted in an unfavorable location, a young tree may have to compete for sun exposure, or possibly have its sunlight blocked by a structure or another tree. Note whether your desired planting spot receives full or partial sun, or mostly shade.
How much moisture reaches this area?
Of course all trees need water to live, but some tree species are happier in drier conditions. Consider how moist the soil is in that particular area and try to plant a tree that will benefit from that amount of water intake.
Don’t forget to consider the height and canopy spread that a particular tree may develop. If it’s a larger species, planting it with ample room to grow will help give it the best chance of growing into a healthy, mature tree.
