There is an old saying that goes: “the best time to plant a tree was thirty years ago, the second best time, is today”. Trees add so much to our properties – they provide shade and privacy, they look beautiful, they provide a home to countless birds and wildlife and as a big plus, they add value to our homes. However, choosing the right tree to plant is crucial to your success. Choosing the wrong tree can end up being a costly disaster, so before you pick up a tree from Bunnings on Saturday without giving it much thought, let’s take a look at our hot tips for successful tree planting in Brisbane.
What Are Your Objectives?
Before you start the selection process, have a pretty comprehensive think about what you want your new tree to achieve, what you do want and what you don’t want. Are you wanting more privacy? Are you wanting to add colour with a flowering tree or do you want your tree to yield fruit? How much maintenance are you prepared to give your tree? How big do you want the tree to be at full height? Do you want a native tree? How fast would you like the tree to grow? What do you not want – invasive roots, lots of leaf debris, proclivity to pests?
Considering all of these factors will help narrow down your choice, better inform your decision and make it far more likely you’ll find your perfect (tree) match.
2. Size Matters
One of the biggest things to get right is size. Look at the space your tree will be going into and find a tree that will be suitable for the available area at full size. Be mindful of any powerlines, services or other structures in the vicinity and take these into account when determining the available size.
Your tree might be small and cute right now, but some trees can grow to be enormous so make sure to get this one right!
3. What Are Your Conditions?
Brisbane’s subtropical climate is generally characterised by hot, humid summers and mild winters. Be sure to choose a tree species that can withstand these conditions – not those of a wintery cottage in the middle of Wales! Native Australian trees are usually excellent choices as they are well-suited to Brisbane’s climate and will normally require minimal maintenance.
Soil type can vary from suburb to suburb so check what you have and make your selection accordingly. You will also need to consider the amount of sun and wind the tree will be exposed to. Will it be in full sun? Partial sun? Shade? Different trees like different conditions so you’ll need to find a match for your specific site.
The drainage on your property should also be considered, as some trees will be able to withstand wetter soil than others.
4. Look Around Your Local Neighbourhood
A great tip is to go for a drive around your local area and spot trees that you like the look of, that are of a similar size to what you’re after and look to be thriving. That’s generally a good indication that the tree is well suited to the local conditions. There are apps you can use to easily identify tree species with a simple photo.
5. Consider Your Local Regulations
Check with your local council if there are any rules or regulations about tree planting and ongoing maintenance. As some trees are considered to be weed species, you may want to steer clear of those.
6. Environmental Considerations
Another factor to consider is the impact that your tree will have on the local wildlife and ecosystem. Brisbane is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna and planting native trees can support and attract local wildlife.
7. Ask Your Local Arborist
If you’re feeling a little bamboozled by the seemingly infinite options, take the guesswork out and ask your local Arborist for their expert opinion. They will be well-versed on what tree species will be best suited for your objectives and conditions and their advice could save you from untold issues down the track.
Professional Tree Planting
If you’re looking for the very best in tree care, call Aussie Tree Solutions for a free quote on our professional tree planting, consulting and maintenance services today. We have over 40 years’ experience and provide a full range of tree services from stump grinding and tree pruning to beautiful forest mulch and everything in between, so no matter the job, we’ve got you covered at Aussie Tree Solutions.