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Selecting Container-Grown Trees

They say money doesn’t grow on trees, but if chosen properly, a tree can not only improve the aesthetics of your property but also increase its value. Before you dash out the door to purchase one, there are several important factors to consider when making your selection.

Your first task is to determine what the role of the tree will be. For instance, will it be used for shade or to block an unwanted view? Or, do you simply want it for its interesting foliage or flowers?

Whatever the reason, always choose a tree variety that tolerates the type of soil, light conditions (sun or shade) and temperature it will be exposed to.

When buying a tree also consider the following

  • Branches and trunk should not have any damage.
  • The tree should not have girdling roots.
  • There should be no codominant stems.
  • Foliage should be proportionate to the size of the tree.
  • It must be free of insects or pests.

Equally important is the space where it will be planted. Keeping in mind that the tree needs room to develop roots and branches, look up and down and left and right to make sure no power lines, structures, pavement or other obstructions will affect tree growth.

Then, properly care for your tree and enjoy all the benefits it provides – from cool shade to a bump in property value.

Picture of David Abrego
David Abrego
David Abrego is a conservation consultant for SAWS. David, a native of Panama, likes to spend his time surrounded by plants and fruit trees. So if you can’t find him at home, he’s probably working in a greenhouse. David is also an arborist and an irrigation technician.
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