July 20, 2007

Trees in the Home Landscape

Of late in Jacksonville, Alabama, there has been a controversy regarding the removal of three old pecan trees that had grown up in the power lines. There are pros and cons on both sides of this now emotional issue: whether they should be removed or be left and merely trimmed. Safety and aesthetic issues have been discussed; all parties involved have made valid points. The only sure way to avoid this possible scenario in your yard is to follow the golden rule of gardening “Plant the right plant in the right place.” In this case do not plant trees whose mature size will take them into the lines. If you follow this guideline it may be possible to avoid many (perhaps not all) future problems. Most of my failures in the garden have come because I did not follow the simple guideline: planting the right plant in the right place–taking into account a plant’s needs: light, soil, fertilization, and water requirements; size at maturity as well as pest and disease prevention requirements. With a tree, size, and width at maturity as well as the location of above-ground and underground utilities and sight lines (at driveways for example) are very important considerations. When planting a tree along the edges of your property, it is essential to consider what the utility company’s right-of-way rights are as it pertains to trimming tree branches or removal of an entire tree. Another consideration should be how close a tree is to the power lines if there is any concern about children’s safety –especially if there may be any danger to a child who likes to climb a tree. As a young girl, even I liked to hide away in the shelter of a big tree in the front yard. As you add trees to your landscape, if the trees’ mature size may be too close to a line, consider a different location, or choose lower growing trees so that when they mature they will not get tangled in the lines. As much as we love our trees, most of us can feel awfully inconvenienced when there is any type of power outage. 
As you choose a tree, placement in your yard may also increase your home’s energy efficiency. Leafy shade trees to the south, east, and west can provide shade from the hot summer sun; when they lose their leaves in the winter the sun’s warmth can help warm your home. Evergreens planted to the north can help provide a windbreak in the winter. The shade of a large tree in the summer is one of the garden’s most wonderful pleasures. How many glasses of lemonade have been drunk in swing under the canopy of a wonderful old tree.
As Joyce Kilmer says, “I think that I shall never see a poem as lovely as a tree.” A well placed tree can add value, beauty, and energy-efficiency to any home. Plant one today.