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that can
affect what urban tree you can grow, when you can grow it and where it can be planted.
At Boughton we understand that it can be easy to overlook some of these factors when choosing an
urban tree to plant, so we have put together the following list.
There are three main factors to consider when choosing an urban tree to plant, these are as follows:
1. Environmental factors
Soil conditions
2. Tree factors
Deciduous or evergreen
Aesthetics – flowering trees, aesthetic shade value, vista and view value
3. Place factors
When choosing an urban tree to plant it is important to determine the types of urban tree appropriate
for your environment and needs. You must consider that different urban trees flourish in different
climate and soil conditions, for example, a willow that requires lots of water would struggle to grow in a
desert, but would thrive at a riverside. The following are a list of important factors to help you choose
the right tree, also view our tree soil requirements page to help you plant your tree:
Additional considerations
Matching
A key element in the urban tree selection process is matching the urban tree to the size of the site on
which the urban tree will be planted. Consider how big the urban tree will be when fully grown and how
this will affect the surrounding area and whether the desired affect can be met. A large expansive area
would support larger trees better than a small front garden/ lawn.
Proximity
It is absolutely crucial to consider the urban trees proximity to buildings, driveways, sidewalks, streets,
overhead and buried utility lines and septic systems. Consider the impact that the urban trees roots and
branches will have, and any damage they may cause if poorly situated near foundations, asphalt/
concrete structures or drainage structures.
Climate
The climate in which an urban tree will be located will affect its ability to thrive, but urban tree
placement and types can affect the climate control for an area. Deciduous urban trees planted along
south, east and west perimeters can provide shade during summer but obscure sunlight in winter when
it is scarce. Evergreens can act as windbreaks and reduce heating costs in winter if they are planted on
north and west sides of a property.
Drainage
Urban trees thrive when planted in good quality and well drained loamy soil, while struggling to grow in
heavy clays poorly-drained soils. Poor drainage can lead to ‘root rot’ when pools of water lay stagnant
around roots and cause a lack of oxygen. Test the area you would like to plant an urban tree by digging a
hole and pouring water into it, if this has not drained in a few hours then drainage is a problem.
Counteract any issues by adding topsoil with improved drainage.
Soil Quality
Your in situ soil may have been contaminated during the construction on the premises, often with
construction materials, rubble, chemicals and petroleum spills altering the pH levels of the soil. Soil can
be tested for contaminants and in the case that the soil is severely contaminated, then quality topsoil
can be added to replace the required amount.
Personal taste
What kind of urban tree are you wanting from an aesthetical perspective, and how will it affect the value
of your property. Consider how the urban tree will look year round and what maintenance is required to
keep the tree looking pristine. Do you want a flowering urban tree or one th