Shocked by the price of Trees?

I sure had sticker shock when I first looked into buying trees.

They're expensive when compared with annuals and perennials.

Then I started thinking about the size and age of the tree and I felt better.

They take a lot longer to grow. It takes five to seven years to produce a 1" diameter trunk on most species and much longer on Japanese Maples.

If it costs $200 and has been growing for 5 years, that's only $40 a year! Seems pretty inexpensive when you look at the cost that way and consider the love and care they received during their time in a nursery.

Site Selection

Site conditions are so important when selecting locations for your plants. Use these site questions to give you a better understanding of your yards' environment.
Answering these questions will help you when it comes time to pick out any garden plants for your yard.

Picking a Tree

Do you want an evergreen? One that flowers? Which is better a fast growing or slow growing variety? See this selection guide for help in picking out your tree.

Are you planning on planting close to your house? You'll want to read trees next to foundations for some tips before you start digging.

Plant it Properly

Planting incorrectly can mean more material for your compost pile! Take time to get this part right and your plants will survive longer. They need special care when you plant them. Reduce the stress of transplant shock and increase your odds for success by following these planting techniques. Your plants will thank you.

Care and Maintenence

Diseases and insects can destroy a yard seemingly overnight. Rushing out with an all purpose bug killer is a waste of money and bad for the environment.
Diseases can be serious, but chemicals may not be the best or only answer to the problem.

Food and Water

What you feed, when you feed and where you feed can make a big difference in your plants' health. Watering is more than just spraying the area with water, see this water guide for some tips to getting it done correctly.

Mulching Tips

Mulch is great for retaining moisture, keeping weeds at bay and giving a finished look to an area. Mulching can also aid in the decline of a plants' health if not done correctly.

Pruning

Before heading out to give your plants a haircut, stop and think about what you are doing. A branch doesn't replace itself in six weeks like our hair does! Take the time to learn how to properly make a cut, what to cut and when.
Done properly your plant will be showing its true colors and not hanging its head in shame.

Following some basic guidelines will have your investment growing for years to come.

Trees planted now and given the proper care will provide beauty and joy for generations.