Last Updated July 12, 2023
The trees you plant on your property will impact your landscape for generations to come. Aside from being beautiful additions to improve your property’s curb appeal, the best trees for your front yard landscaping can serve multiple important purposes. They can provide cooling shade in the summer, create windbreaks in the winter, and serve as privacy screens throughout the year — and the same goes for your backyard, too.
Choosing the best trees for your front and back yard is a big decision. Taking the time to choose the right species now will reward you long into the future.
Why Tree Selection Matters
What makes a tree “right” for your property is about much more than its current appearance and size at the nursery. Many homeowners discover too late that their chosen tree’s growth patterns clash with the needs of their property. For example, a fast-growing tree like a silver maple might seem like an ideal shade tree, but its aggressive root system can damage your home’s foundation or underground pipes.
Likewise, planting tall evergreens on the south side of your home can block needed winter sunlight, leading to higher heating bills. Even the best small trees for front yards require a decades-long outlook. You’ll need to know whether their mature height will interfere with power lines or whether their leaves or spring flowers will clog your gutters.
Believe it or not, the trees on your property can influence your entire micro-ecosystem, from your soil chemistry to the wildlife that lives and surrounds your property.
By making an informed choice and picking the best trees for your front yard and the rest of your property, you can avoid big, tree-sized mistakes that will cost you down the road.
Understanding Tree Types: Deciduous and Coniferous
Selecting trees for your yard begins with understanding different tree types. Let’s start with the basics. The classification of trees begins with two primary categories: deciduous and coniferous.
Deciduous trees are also known as hardwoods. They have leaves of various shapes that burst into beautiful colors in autumn before falling to the ground. Examples include oak, elm, maple, and willow trees. They shade your house in the summer and allow sunlight to filter through their bare branches in winter after dropping their leaves. Some deciduous trees, such as birches and crape myrtle, have exfoliating bark that provides a beautiful winter focal point. Other deciduous trees bear fruit and nuts.
Most coniferous trees are evergreens, which means you'll have greenery year-round. Their leaves are needle-shaped, and examples include pine, fir, spruce, and cedar. Evergreen trees not only shade your home in the summer, but they also provide a windscreen to block harsh winter breezes. Coniferous trees provide a year-round privacy fence to block unwanted views. Birds and small animals may also seek refuge in evergreen trees, particularly during the winter.
Choosing Climate-Appropriate and Native Trees
Keep in mind that different trees thrive in different climatic zones, so although you may have found a tree that provides the benefits you’re looking for, it may not do well in your yard. It’s always a good idea to plant trees native to your region.
In the southeast, heat-tolerant species like crape myrtle and southern magnolia flourish, while the northeast’s harsh winters are better suited to sturdy natives like red maple and eastern white pine. The Pacific Northwest’s wet climate supports towering western red cedars, while drought-resistant options like desert willow and Chinese pistache make for some of the best shade trees for front yards in the southwest.
It’s always a good idea to plant trees native to your region. Native species have evolved to handle local weather extremes, from ice storms to summer droughts. Plus, they support local wildlife and typically require less maintenance.
Planning for Space and Growth
Consider how much space is available when researching different tree types for your yard. Even the best trees for small yards need room for healthy root development and canopy growth. Your newly planted sapling may look tiny now, but try envisioning its mature size.
The roots of certain trees spread wide, and if you’re not careful, the roots can damage drains and foundations, block windows, and do more harm than good. So make sure you select trees that are appropriately sized for each specific area, with room to grow.
Evaluate the Soil Quality
Different kinds of trees require different soil conditions. Understanding your soil type is crucial for choosing the best trees for your front yard landscaping (or for anywhere else on your property).
Dense clay soils, while nutrient-rich, can suffocate roots and cause drainage issues. In these conditions, trees like river birch and green ash tend to thrive. Sandy soils, which drain quickly and hold fewer nutrients, work well for drought-tolerant species like pine and honey locust.
Soil pH also significantly impacts tree health. Before planting, test your soil. You can find soil testing kits at most home improvement stores or nurseries. These kits will tell you your soil’s pH levels, nutrient content, and composition. Poor-quality soil won’t have enough nutrients for any tree to survive, but you can amend the soil to improve it over time.
Identifying Tree Purpose: Shade, Privacy, or Aesthetic Appeal
What are the kinds of trees you want to plant? Deciduous? Evergreen? Are you looking for a tree that can provide shade to help cool your home in the summer or to provide a shady outdoor refuge? Do you want one with strong limbs for the kids to climb or to build a treehouse? How about a tree that provides fruit? Or maybe you just want one that will add beauty, elegance, and charm to your property. Identifying your expectations will help you narrow down your tree choices.
Consider the Tree’s Growth Rate
Depending on the tree type, climate conditions, and soil, each tree grows at a different rate. Even trees on the same property may grow differently based on their location. In general, there are slow-growing, moderate-growth, and fast-growing trees to consider.
Here are some examples of tree growth rates:
- Fast-growing: typically grows 25 inches or more annually.
- Moderate growth: grows 13 to 24 inches a year.
- Slow growth: grows about 12 inches or less annually.
Choose Disease Resistant Options
Some trees are more resistant to infections than others. Choosing a tree that is more disease-resistant can mean the difference between a thriving landscape and costly tree removal in the future. For example, Dutch elm disease continues to harm the American elm population, but resistant elm varieties like “Princeton” and “Valley Forge” now offer safer alternatives.
Similarly, while traditional flowering dogwoods often succumb to anthracnose, the Kousa dogwood shows excellent resistance to this fungal disease. That all goes to say that when selecting trees, research common diseases in your region and choose resistant varieties. Consider planting native tree species, which can typically have better natural defenses against local pests and diseases.
Consider Maintenance Requirements
Before you make a final decision on which tree(s) you want, find out how much maintenance is required. Some tree species demand significant upkeep, while others are nearly maintenance-free. For example, sweet gum trees, while beautiful, drop spiky seed balls that require regular cleanup and can make lawn maintenance challenging. Female ginkgo trees produce messy, stinky fruit. Fruit trees, like cherry and apple, require annual pruning, pest management, and fruit cleanup.
On the lower-maintenance end, many native species like oak and maple typically only require occasional pruning and basic care once established. Just remember that all trees need regular watering during their first few years and occasional inspections for disease or damage.
Look into Local Laws and HOA Regulations
Before you plant any trees, it’s always a good idea to research the laws and regulations regarding trees in your area. If there is an HOA where you live, check the HOA rules regarding which trees you can and can’t plant in your yard.
Find Your Perfect Trees with The Grounds Guys
Choosing the best trees for your front yard or any part of your landscape is a decision that will shape your property’s beauty, value, and environment long into the future. Each factor we’ve discussed will help ensure you make the right choice for your home.
At The Grounds Guys®, we know that choosing the best trees for your front yard landscaping can sometimes feel overwhelming. Our experienced landscaping professionals can evaluate your property and recommend trees that match your vision, space, and budget. We consider everything from soil composition to local climate patterns to make sure your investment will flourish. Our comprehensive tree services even include selection guidance, professional planting, ongoing maintenance, and seasonal care. Plus, we back our services by the Neighborly Done Right Promise® to ensure your satisfaction.
Ready to add the right trees to your property? Request a free estimate today.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your home and property. Neighborly is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of this blog content or your actions. For the most accurate guidance, contact the applicable local Neighborly home service provider for a comprehensive, on-site assessment.