The Beauty of Trees
After working with Erica and Michael Byrne, fellow Park Hill residents who recently lost their magnificent black walnut tree, I felt compelled to write an article about how to choose one for your property.
The Byrnes purchased their Clermont Street home just over a year ago. A major selling point of the property was the unique and beautiful tree specimens that graced both the front yard and the back yard – including a beautiful walnut tree that provided shade, privacy and natural definition to their garden border.
After only a few months in the home and becoming memorized by the tree’s beauty, they were notified that the tree must come down due to Thousand Cankers Disease. Devastated, they have slowly come to terms with the fact that a new tree must be planted. And, that whatever tree they decide to put in its place will not come close to the aesthetic brilliance of the once-coveted black walnut tree.
Needless to say, filling a vacant space in the landscape is a task not taken lightly, especially where a once-stunning, mature tree lived for decades. Fortunately, however, Park Hill is able to support an array of arboreal life and there are considerable choices. From redbuds, to maples, to oaks, to the rare and unique larch tree (which the Byrnes are blessed to have on their property) to the Japanese tree lilac, we have amazing choices.
A site analysis a good place to begin prior to planting a tree. CSU offers soil testing and analysis (www.soiltestinglab.colostate.edu). Likewise, there are numerous certified arborists and tree care companies that can provide knowledgeable guidance and assist you with your decision.
In addition to creating a “pro-con” list, take into account the following considerations:
Location. Where is the new tree being planted? Is it close to the home or in the middle of your border? Think about the tree when it matures in 10 to 20 years. Assessing your micro-climate is key. Does the area have high winds, southern sun exposure or low points that tend to be moister?
Purpose. What will the tree provide? Privacy? Shade? Hierarchy in the garden?
Aesthetic. Do you want something that is dynamic (producing flowers, berries, fall color) or a simple evergreen for year-round interest? What shape do you like – pyramidal, oval, organic and over-reaching?
Maintenance. How much are you willing to maintain the tree? Will the tree require a lot of pruning because the limbs are too close to the window?
Not only do trees in your landscape add value to your property, they help to create uniqueness to it. They provide a hierarchy in the garden that implies a well-thought out design. They provide shelter for the birds and cast beautiful shadows on your lawn.
Trees are awesome. So, too, is the task in choosing which one will adorn your home.
The Byrnes have gracefully accepted their loss and have taken all of the proper steps to ensure that whatever tree they decide on, it will not only thrive in its location and serve its purpose, but compliment their beautiful Park Hill property.
February Tips
Continue to winter water. A deep water at the base of your trees and shrubs is recommended and best done mid-day and when temperatures are above 40 degrees. Water your perennials, as well. Warm, windy or dry periods will dry your soil out.
Draw out your veggie garden. (Remember, it needs at least six hours of sun a day.)
Check seed catalogs and look for disease-resistant varieties.
Prepare your seeds for your vegetable crops. Sow cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli and brussel seeds indoor in February to transplant into the garden in March or April.
Cut back late-summer blooming shrubs (blue mist spirea, Russian sage, butterfly bush, lavender or the like) down to 6” stubs in late February.
Contact a certified arborist to assist with tree selection or other tree maintenance needs.