It is important to plan ahead when you’re planting trees for urban planting. As, urban trees can be defined as those species which are most appropriate for landscaping in urban areas. Such as home yards, around commercial or industrial buildings, in parks, as a screen for unsightly land uses, along streets and boulevards, next to sidewalks and in medians. The degree to which a tree is appropriate will vary depending upon the precise landscaping use. For example, a tree with a spreading growth habit may be appropriate for a home garden, but not suited to growth along a roadway.
Criteria for Selecting Trees for Urban Planting
In the selection of tree species for urban planting, the following ten general criteria should be considered:
- Above all, we recommend trees small to moderate size, with an upright growth form; taking into account potential adult size, especially if overhead utility lines are present.
- Choose allergy friendly trees. Keep away from trees which that produce annoying allergens when in flower, or fowl smelling fruits.
- Select trees which respond well to pruning and shaping.
- It is import to keep in mind which trees do not produce large amounts of litter from leaves, flowers or fruits.
- Avoid trees which that produce dripping resin or latex.
- Choose trees that don’t bear large fruits which may fall and cause damage or personal injury.
- Include trees which are tolerant of urban air pollution, especially along road ways.
- Trees which do not bear sharp spines or leaves close to the ground that could injure a passerby.
- Make sure that the trees meet the characteristics of the environment, such as tolerance of small planting areas, and pavement. Which may deprive them of runoff water and nutrients, and impact root development and make them prone to uprooting.
- Also, steer clear of trees that develop large aggressive surface roots that raise sidewalks or foundations; root barriers can be installed but at some extra expense.
The above list is a daunting one to consider in selecting an urban tree, but not all of the criteria are relevant in all situations. If you need to plant a tree in your back yard there are very few limitations in terms of its growth form and characteristics. Different situation from a for a a sidewalk cutout where there is heavy pedestrian traffic; reason why it requires a lot more consideration and planning.
Considerations When Selecting Trees for Urban Planting
An excellent approach to selecting trees for urban planting, is to observe those already in use in the urban landscape where you live. If you see a tree you particularly like but are unsure of its identity, take a photograph, note the location in case you wish to return to see it again, and identify it using a gardening reference book or flora, or by visiting a local botanic garden where it may be growing and bear an identity tag.
Another source of information is local municipal government, which may have a helpful street tree selection guide. The City of San Diego, California, for example, has a listing of recommended urban tree species, grouped into small, medium and large sizes. Furthermore, characterized by form, height, spread, type and drought resistance trees. Also, remember tree types are single out as deciduous, evergreen, flowering or palm trees. Drought resistance is an important consideration since many urban trees are deprived of surface water runoff.
With a little investigation following the suggestions above, along with the TreeWorld plant list descriptions, the gardener can select the ideal urban tree species for any landscaping situation.
