Planting trees is a long term investment. Initially, it costs you time and money and then years of watering and tending. Your tree can become priceless to you and so worth your time and effort. However, don’t let your investment go to waste by planting your favorite trees in the wrong spot. You’ll end up ripping out your tree, fixing house and sidewalk problems, or experience a ghastly sight if the power company has to come and trim your branches away from the power lines. Avoid these potential problems by planning ahead. Even if you start a one-gallon sized tree, following these simple guidelines before you dig your hole, will save you time and money and heartache in the future. Planting trees in the right spot is very important!
The most important overriding rule is know the final/adult size and shape of your tree. All little babies grow up, even cute little baby saplings. Good independent garden centers in Utah, like Western Garden Centers, will provide excellent quality material and you’ll have the information you need for these guidelines.
#1 Plan where you plant your tree in relation to your house or buildings. We have a friend who moved into a neighboring house. The previous owners liked a little blue spruce and wanted to frame their home with it. Well, they actually did frame it, about 2 feet away from the home. They didn’t plan ahead for a potentially 40 foot blue spruce to be so close to the home. In a few more years, even the trunk itself could be up again the rain-gutter. Eventually, the new owners will have to take out the tree to save on expensive eave and roof repairs. Misplaced trees can also have their roots damage your home’s foundation, sidewalk, and driveway. Know your tree’s potential, above ground and below!
#2 – Do not plant under power lines if your tree will become too tall or big! If your tree looses a branch and cuts the electricity during a Utah heavy snow storm, then remember that all your neighbors will be ticked off as they rush to save the food in their freezers and hope that their computers didn’t fry on the disruption. Know that eventually, the power company does have the right to keep clear any branches of residence and business’ trees. It’s part of living in a community! They will come and clear away any and all branches within a certain amount of feet from the lines. Plus, anything directly above the lines have to be pruned also. Your trees won’t get the tender loving care of a good arborist, the power company will cut away like a marine hair cut! Know your tree and be responsible!
#3 – Don’t plant too many “baby” trees together just because you like the look of a lot of material. Again, eventually you’ll be ripping out your good money. They will grow and crowd each other, also causing disease and basic illness of some of your trees. Know your tree and don’t overplant!
Last week I went driving within a 4 mile radius of our home and took photos of trees that were not well thought out before they were planted. Carefully examine and don’t become a victim of this common error. Know your Tree!
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