Trees are a huge investment to make, so considering the right one for your region is a very important decision. You need to take into consideration the soil and especially the climate before just planting any tree. Be aware that oftentimes, many nurseries will provide tree options that might not even be suitable for your region. You’ll need to do your research before deciding on what tree to buy and plant for the Denver area. Colorado’s climate varies from North to South, East to West, so not every species is suitable for various parts of the state. It’s also important to keep in mind, that you’ll need to maintain any tree that you plant. Since it is a big investment, you’ll want to make sure that you consider yearly tree trimming maintenance in your tree care plan. (Of course, we have experts on staff for all of your Denver tree trimming needs.)
Before Buying Your Tree
There are many things to consider before purchasing a tree to plant. Trees can often outlive the homeowner, so keep in mind that the tree needs to be suitable for the future homeowner’s needs. Your decision can greatly influence generations to come! If you want to choose the right tree, reaching out to one of our Denver tree services pros (that serve the Denver market) for advice might just be a good starting point for you.
A couple of things to consider are the size of your property and if there’s enough space for your tree to grow to its full height. Keep in mind that this doesn’t just mean the space above, but also the space below. The root systems can often grow two – three times the height of the tree. Determine the growth rate of the tree and also the form of the tree. Will your tree’s branches look more like a column, will they spread or will they have a more pyramid shape? This will help you determine the right space for your tree.
You’ll also need to pay attention to how much sunlight your tree will need to get. Make sure that there’s no overcrowding with trees that are already in place in your yard or neighborhood. You don’t want your trees fighting for sunlight, nutrients, or water.
Trees You Should Avoid Planting In Denver
There are many species of trees that you avoid planting. These trees are highly susceptible to disease and infestation. The following lists of trees can also be invasive and spread out, causing damage to Denver’s precious ecosystem and native plants.
Species not recommended are: non-native cottonwoods, siberian elms, willows, russian olive, silver maple, aspen, and austree.
Trees to Plant in Denver:
- English Oak
- Bur Oak
- Hackberry
- American Elm
- Littleleaf Linden
- Sycamore
- Norway Maple
- Black Walnut
- Gynko
- Mayday Tree
- Canyon Maple
Selecting the Right Tree
You want to make sure and select the highest quality tree when you’re out searching, that way you avoid issues in the future so that you don’t need to rely on a tree care specialists as often. Here are a few trips for purchasing a healthy tree:
- Your tree should be free from insects
- Choose a tree whose roots are not bound up
- Pick a tree that does not have any obvious damage to trunk or roots
- Most of the tree foliage should be concentrated at the top of the tree
- The branches should be spread out evenly
- Root system should be moist (not brittle or dry)
- Container of tree should not contain circling roots
- Bark should look healthy
- Tree should not contain discoloration or signs of fungus
Keeping Your New Tree Healthy
- Maintain a consistent level of moisture by watering every 3-5 days
- Use 10 gallons of water per inch of tree diameter
- Apply mulch to help conserve moisture levels
- Limit pruning to only when needed to make corrections (removing broken or torn branches)
- Maintain a single dominant leader on your young tree and don’t allow the secondary branches to get ahead
- Stake your tree to avoid it from shifting, after it was just planted
- Seek advice from online resources related to tree care
- Keeping your new tree healthy is important, so you can avoid a tree removal in the future!
As always, if you have any questions feel free to contact one of our tree service professionals in Denver or Arvada if you need additional advice! We also offer tree removal and stump removal in Denver, Arvada, Lakewood, Wheat Ridge and other surrounding areas!
For more information on tree care, you might visit some of our other interesting articles on the subject!
Local Tree Service in Denver, CO | Urban Forestry 