How to Choose the Right Tree for Your Landscape
Choosing the right tree for your landscape is more than just picking what looks pretty. The right tree can increase property value, provide shade, attract wildlife, and require minimal maintenance. The wrong one? It could crack sidewalks, overwhelm your yard, or even become a safety hazard. Here’s how to make the best choice for your landscape:
1. Understand Your Site Conditions
Before selecting a tree, assess your yard’s environment:
Soil Type: Sandy, clay, loam, or a mix?
Drainage: Does water pool in certain areas?
Sunlight: Is your space full sun, part shade, or full shade?
Space: How much room is available both above and below ground?
2. Define the Tree’s Purpose
Ask yourself what you want the tree to do:
Provide shade?
Serve as a privacy screen?
Offer seasonal color or flowers?
Produce fruit or nuts?
3. Choose the Right Tree Type
Here’s a basic guide:
Shade Trees: Oak, elm, maple
Ornamental Trees: Dogwood, redbud, crepe myrtle
Evergreens: Southern magnolia, holly, cedar
Fruit/Nut Trees: Fig, pecan, citrus (depending on your climate zone)
4. Go Native When Possible
Native trees are adapted to local soil, weather, and pests—making them more resilient and less demanding. In Louisiana, good native options include:
Bald Cypress
Sweetbay Magnolia
American Hornbeam
River Birch
5. Avoid Problem Trees
Some trees can cause more trouble than they’re worth. Watch out for:
Fast-growing trees with weak wood (e.g., silver maple)
Invasive roots (e.g., willow, sycamore near foundations)
Non-native, invasive species (e.g., chinaberry)
6. Consider Mature Size
Always research the mature height and width. That cute sapling can become a 60-foot giant and block sunlight or interfere with power lines.
7. Think Long-Term
Some trees take decades to mature. If you're looking for immediate impact, mix in faster-growing ornamentals with long-living slower growers.