Southlake’s Guide to Sustainable Tree Planting

For those who want to do their part to help the environment, planting new trees can be a great option. Trees help minimize air pollution and protect valuable natural resources. While it’s fairly easy to plant new trees, choosing the right ones can be difficult. In North Texas, some species do better than others in the local climate and soil. We’ve put together this quick guide to tree planting in Southlake, Texas, with tips for choosing the right trees.

Best Tree Species for Southlake’s Climate

Image via Unsplash by George Bakos

Fortunately, many types of trees grow well in the North Texas region, including native species. Those who want to plant large trees have several options, such as bur oak. This tree can reach 50 to 80 feet tall. It’s tolerant of drought and will enjoy a long life span with proper care. Other large trees that grow well in Southlake and the surrounding region include bald cypress, cedar elm, and Arizona cypress, an evergreen tree. When established, all these trees can reach 50 feet or more in height.

For those looking to plant trees in their gardens or smaller spaces, Eve’s necklace can be a good option. It gets its name from its black seeds, which look like the beads on a necklace. It produces pink flowers in the spring, making it a stunning addition to a backyard landscape. Other small trees that grow well in the Southlake climate include the eastern redbud and Mexican plum.

Tips for Planting New Trees

When planting new trees in Southlake, homeowners and property managers should follow some best practices to ensure their new trees grow properly and become established. The Texas A&M Forest Service recommends these tips:

• Plant container trees in the late fall.
• Water a new tree slowly and deeply after planting.
• Plan to water new trees often throughout the first year. Aim to water a new tree at least once every week or two.
• Use mulch around the base of the tree to prevent weeds and keep the soil insulated.

Benefits of Sustainable Tree Planting

Planting new trees in Southlake can have many benefits, ranging from cleaner air to prettier landscapes. Here are some reasons to plant new trees:

• Trees contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment by producing oxygen and reducing smog.
• Trees can reduce carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases in the air to mitigate the effects of climate change.
• Trees can provide shade and cooler air during hot North Texas summers, helping to conserve energy and reduce air-conditioning costs.
• Trees offer natural habitats for birds and other wildlife to maintain biodiversity.

With so many trees that grow well in the North Texas region, Southlake property owners have many choices when planting new trees to enhance their home or business landscapes. Those who still have questions about the right trees to plant can contact TreeNewal. Our certified arborists can evaluate the site and soil conditions and recommend the best species to plant. We can also help trees grow to their full potential with the right nutrition and fertilization. For more information, contact us online or call us at 817-329-2450.