Trees add value to a home if it’s the right tree in the right place.

You may have heard that trees add value to a home. This is true with a caveat: the right tree in the right place adds value. In fact, properties with mature trees can sell for up to 15% more. In addition to being a good investment, trees provide beauty, cleaner air and the comfort of shade. Plus, a well-positioned tree can save a homeowner up to 25% on energy bills. With all these advantages, you may want to plant one or more trees. The tips below will help you select one that will thrive in your landscape and provide the benefits you seek.

When to plant

Spring and fall are both good times to plant trees. In these cooler seasons, they can get established without the stress of summer’s heat.

If planting in fall, do so well before the ground freezes. Some landscapers say that if area trees still have leaves, it’s a good time to plant new trees.

Regardless of when you plant, ensure your new leafy friends get adequate water until they go dormant for winter.

What and where to plant

Choosing a tree that will thrive in your yard requires a bit of investigation

First, evaluate the site. What kind of light does the area get— full sun, part shade or full shade? Measure the space; you’ll need these numbers when choosing a tree. What’s the soil like? Trees do well with well-draining soils. Avoid any areas where water pools or correct drainage problems before planting.

Once you know the site measurements and conditions, select a tree that will thrive in the conditions you have.

When shopping, check the tags for the tree’s mature height, width and overall shape, as well as its light and water needs. Be sure there is enough space for the tree at maturity. Countless homeowners overlook how big a tree will get and put trees in the wrong place. Later, they must deal with the hassle of branches that overhang the roof. Sometimes they face large bills to have the tree trimmed or taken down.

Consider the tree’s other habits too. For example, does it flower, or produce berries or nuts? Eventually, these plant materials drop to the ground; if the tree is out in the yard it’s not a problem but if it’s near a sidewalk or pool, it could be the source of frustration.

For more on selecting trees, check out these resources from MSU Extension.

Where to buy

Trees are available at many stores, but local nurseries are especially helpful with their extensive knowledge of local growing conditions. For example, if you have clay soil, they’ll know which trees will thrive in that soil type and can advise you on preparing the hole for long-term success. Local nurseries often provide planting services too.

Before making a tree purchase, ask the retailer about their plant warranty. Many stand behind their plants for one year after purchase. This can help make your treescaping dollars go further in case a tree dies.

Buying trees that will add long-term value

When shopping for trees you’ll quickly notice the bigger the tree, the higher the price. There’s definitely a trade-off between saving money and tree maturity. You can pay less up front and wait a long time to enjoy the tree’s full benefits or pay more now and gain them earlier. One way to finance trees is with a home equity line of credit. Many homeowners choose a HELOC to pay for trees over time because the interest is lower than a credit card’s.

 

 All loans subject to approval. Rates, terms, and conditions are subject to change may vary based on credit worthiness, qualifications, and collateral conditions.