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8 Things To Consider Before Planting A Tree On Your Seattle Property

March 26, 2023

ericb28

Expert Tips To Choose The Right To And The Right Location For Your Trees

So you want a beautiful tree to enhance the natural landscape, improve your quality of life, and curb appeal?

That’s fantastic!

Aside from the aesthetic appeal, trees provide shade, protection from Seattle winds, and privacy. They draw water into their roots, reduce flooding during heavy coastal rains, and reduce the risk of landslides.

Trees mitigate the heat island effect due to pavement and buildings. They breathe in carbon dioxide and provide us with oxygen, a home to birds and wildlife, and food for pollinators.

However, before you hit the nursery, there are a few things to consider to ensure you choose the right tree for you and the space in mind.

To save you from years of dissatisfaction, prematurely removing your tree, or risking damaging your home, here are 8 things to consider when choosing a tree and a spot to plant it.

8 Things To Keep In Mind When Planting A Tree On Your Seattle Property

8 things to consider before planting a tree on your seattle property, choosing the right tree, sound tree care

1. Type Of Tree

When deciding what type of tree you want on your property, first determine their purpose - shade, visual interest, fruit production, privacy, and so forth - then research the species that fit your needs to learn everything you can.

Deciduous Or Coniferous

Before narrowing down what type of tree to plant, decide whether a deciduous or coniferous (evergreen) is best for the space and your lifestyle.

coniferous trees, 8 things to consider before planting a tree on your seattle property, sound tree care

Coniferous Trees, such as spruce, pine, fir, juniper, Mountain Hemlock, sequoia, and broadleaf evergreens, have leaves (or needles) that stay green year-round.

The assumption that they do not shed their leaves doesn’t hold. They do! Anyone with pine trees in their yard - or their neighbor does - can attest to that.

Some evergreens shed their needles every few years, such as the Scots Pine and Red Pine, while others shed every fall (Tamarack Pine). Like all trees, their leaves are susceptible to insects, sunburn, freezing, and death.

Another thing to consider is that the leaves (needles) have high acidity that seeps into the soil, killing the grass and nearby plants. There are some plants and flowers that thrive in acidic conditions. Talk to your nursery.

Whichever type of tree you choose, there will always be leaves (or needles) to clean up, clear from your gutters, and pollen blanketing your property every year.

But the benefits for our environment and quality of life outweigh any downsides.

Flowering, Fruit-Bearing, Or Not?

flowering trees, things to consider before planting a tree on your seattle property, sound tree care

Fruit trees add visual interest to your landscape that changes with the seasons. There are bright and airy blooms in the spring, vibrant summer fruits for eating or enjoying, changing leaves in the fall, and enchanting silhouettes when the snow sticks in the Seattle winter.

However, with all that color and productivity comes more maintenance. Flower petals and pollen blanket your property (if you have allergies - beware); you must pick up fallen fruit or get a squishy surprise, and leaves need raking.

How Fast It Grows

Different types of trees have different growth patterns. If you don’t want to do a lot of maintenance, look for trees that grow slowly, such as the Black Tupelo (Nyssa sylvatica).

If planting trees to create a privacy hedge, look for fast-growing trees that grow low branches and a thick canopy, like the Leland Cypress.

Planting small, young trees can save you money if you’re willing to wait until the tree grows. With routine maintenance, your young trees will grow precisely how you want them.

Is It Considered An Invasive Species?

Whether you opt for native or ornamental, choose trees not considered invasive in your region. In Seattle, avoid the English laurel (Prunus laurocerasus), English holly (Ilex aquifolium), European hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), and the tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima). These species invade city parks and open spaces, compete with our native trees, and are strictly prohibited in the Seattle, Washington, area.

To learn which trees are native, non-native, and invasive, check out this excellent Oregon Department of Forestry guide.

2. Climate Zone And Soil Requirements

USDA Plant Hardiness Map, 8 things to consider before planting a tree on your seattle property, sound tree care

Select trees that thrive in your climate zone and have suitable soil. A local arborist can help you determine your soil type and what trees will flourish in your yard based on the soil and climate zone. They can also help you improve your soil if needed.

You can find out what your plant hardiness zone using the USDA Plant Hardiness Map at https://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/.

3. How Big The Tree Gets

When you visit your local nursery, you envision those cute little trees in your space, but you must remember that they grow.

Ask the attendants how large the trees grow and how much space they need.

The ultimate size of a tree can determine where to plant it in your yard and whether it is the right one for you.

4. Their Root System

A tree with a lot of roots is sitting on top of a hill.

Remember that what you see above ground also grows below. Find out how large the tree’s root ball becomes and how far its root system spreads to determine where to place your tree.

As a general rule, the roots extend about 1.5 times the height of the tree.

Planting too close to your home can lead to severe problems in the future, as the root system supporting and nourishing your tree can penetrate your foundation and damage other structures on your property.

5. Where To Plant It - Is There Enough Space?

When you first plant a tree or shrub, it doesn’t require much space, but that doesn’t mean it won’t need more.

Once you know how large the tree grows, how much space its roots will take up, and its space requirement above ground (its mature height and spread), you can plant it confident that your chosen location meets its needs now and forever.

Check with your local utilities to ensure your tree won’t disrupt or come into contact with overhead or underground utilities.

If you intend to plant a tree in the planting strip or right-of-way, you must apply for street tree permits from the SDOT beforehand.

NOTE: SDOT will not permit trees in planting strips less than 4' wide. If you want help, consider participating in Trees for Neighborhoods or contacting us. We can help you with the permit application process and provide expert tree-planting advice.

6. How Will The Tree Impact Vegetation And Soil?

Choose a tree that complements the rest of your plants and landscape rather than disrupts or destroys it. As mentioned earlier, some trees have a more dramatic effect on their environment than others.

If extra care is needed to keep it and your other plants healthy and flourishing, consider that when selecting your trees.

7. The Tree’s Maintenance Requirements

Young trees require more frequent pruning, watering, and care than mature ones, and every species has unique maintenance needs. Learning what the tree requires to live long and healthy lives can help you decide which type fits your lifestyle.

While having a professional tree service taking care of pruning and shaping your trees ensures your trees thrive and relieves you of some maintenance, day-to-day care is still your responsibility.

Factor in the time and cost of tree maintenance when deciding what trees are right for you.

8. Is The Tree From A Reputable Nursery?

Once you have researched, consulted experts, and determined what tree you want to plant and where the next step is to buy it.

Be sure to research the nursery that raised your tree. Consult with trusted tree care companies and neighbors, and read reviews to help you find a reputable tree nursery in your area. Ask them about their practices and where the trees come from.

Do they raise them from seeds derived from their trees or purchase them? If so, where do the seeds come from?

Inspect the trees for insects, a damaged root ball, stem damage, improper pruning, signs of blight, fungal infection, and other diseases.

To learn how to identify common tree diseases in Seattle, read our article Common Tree Diseases To Watch Out For In Your Seattle Trees.

A reputable tree nursery takes excellent care of its trees and won’t sell you sick, weak, or unhealthy trees. They also guarantee their young trees and give detailed instructions on planting and early care.

Some nurseries offer to plant the tree for you to ensure it's done correctly. While it may cost you, it’s well worth the investment.

With research, careful thought, and planning, you can confidently plant your new trees, knowing that they are the best tree for you and in the right location for them.

Do you still have questions about planting trees on your Seattle area residential or commercial property?

We have a certified arborist on staff who will happily answer your questions. We provide consultations and can help you make an informed decision. Talk to us today.

TALK TO US TODAY

Sound Tree Care is a top-rated, licensed tree care company with a certified arborist on staff serving SeaTac, Seattle, and the surrounding communities. Registered with the City of Seattle and Burien, our tree care specialists can help you keep your trees healthy and strong with regular tree pruning, preventative maintenance, removal, and disease treatment services.

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Winter Tree Maintenance Checklist: Expert Care for Healthy Trees

By Eric Ledford • February 1, 2025

Winter is the perfect time for essential tree maintenance. Dormant trees are easier to assess and prune, and proactive care during the off-season can prevent damage from storms and ensure a vibrant landscape come spring. Whether you’re managing storm-related issues, pruning for health and productivity, or preparing for the growing season, this guide will help you keep your trees in peak condition. 1. Emergency Tree Services for Winter Storms Winter storms in Seattle often bring heavy rain, wind, and snow, leading to tree damage such as broken branches, uprooted trunks, or fallen limbs. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial to preventing further risks. Post-Storm Inspections: Look for hazardous conditions like cracks, hanging branches, or leaning trees. Hazard Tree Removal: Remove trees that pose an immediate risk to your home, power lines, or roadways. Storm Damage Prevention: Prune overextended or weakened branches before storms hit to minimize hazards. At Sound Tree Care, we specialize in emergency tree services, including hazard tree removal and post-storm cleanup, ensuring your property is safe and secure. 2. Prune Trees in Winter for Health and Productivity Winter pruning is an essential task for maintaining tree health and safety. Without leaves, it’s easier to see a tree’s structure and address potential problems. Structural Pruning: Remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches to reduce risk and encourage strong growth. Aesthetic Pruning: Shape trees for improved appearance and safety. Special Focus on Fruit and Nut Trees Orchard Pruning : Prune apple, cherry, and pear trees to enhance fruit production by increasing air circulation and sunlight exposure. Nut Tree Care: Winter pruning of walnut and pecan trees prevents sap loss during the growing season and promotes healthier growth. Our ISA Certified Arborists offer expert orchard pruning and maintenance to maximize your trees’ productivity and longevity. 3. Tree Risk Assessment : Prioritize Safety and Longevity Winter is an ideal time to evaluate tree health and assess risks, especially in urban environments like Seattle. A thorough tree risk assessment includes: Inspecting for cracks, decay, or weakened roots. Evaluating the likelihood of branch or whole tree failure. Identifying potential hazards to nearby homes, vehicles, and pedestrians. Sound Tree Care’s certified arborists provide comprehensive evaluations to ensure your trees are safe and your property protected. 4. Seattle Tree Care : Preparing for Spring Growth Seattle’s mild winters make it possible to prepare your landscape for a vibrant spring. Key steps include: Fertilizing: Use a slow-release fertilizer to replenish nutrients. Mulching: Protect roots with a 2–4 inch layer of mulch to insulate and retain moisture. Pest Control: Address overwintering pests like Bronze Birch Borer or Wooly Adelgid to prevent spring infestations. Sound Tree Care’s local expertise in Seattle tree care ensures your trees thrive in the Pacific Northwest’s unique climate. Why Choose Sound Tree Care? At Sound Tree Care, we’re committed to providing exceptional tree care services tailored to Seattle’s unique environment. From emergency tree services and orchard pruning to comprehensive tree risk assessments, our ISA Certified Arborists deliver expert solutions to keep your trees healthy and safe. Contact Sound Tree Care Today Need expert winter pruning or help managing your trees this season? Call 206-486-7790 or use our convenient online form to schedule your service. Whether you need emergency tree removal, orchard pruning, or a professional tree risk assessment, our ISA Certified Arborists are here to help! Visit www.soundtreecarellc.com to get started.