Tree Planting Services
People plant trees on their property because of the numerous benefits they provide. Those benefits include improving the air quality around your home or business, preventing soil erosion, providing a wind break and, of course, enhancing the way your property looks.
Estate agents will tell you that kerb appeal has a major impact on the value of a home, and few things have as great an impact on kerb appeal as trees. In fact, the mere presence of mature trees on a property can increase the value of that property by anywhere from 7-19%.
That said, planting trees is not as simple as digging a hole in the ground and dropping a tree into it. There are a number of things to consider that will (or at least should) influence your decision, and your choice of trees to plant.
Things to Consider Before Planting Trees
Tree planting is an often overlooked but rewarding and satisfying aspect of our work. We are able to advise on all aspects of planting – from entire woodlands to single trees.
When considering planting a new tree, groups of trees or shrubs we would recommend that the following points be carefully considered:
SUITABILITY: Will the tree “look right”? Often an exotic species in a rural situation will look out of place; while on the other hand a native tree in a very formal garden will look equally odd. If you choose a flowering tree will the colour of the blossoms enhance or detract from the look of your house? You also have to consider whether those blossoms are likely to aggravate the allergies of anyone living in the house.
SOIL: Will the chosen tree or shrub grow in the soil you intend to plant it in? Many shrubs do not tolerate highly alkaline soils (such as chalk). Because of this you will need to examine the properties of the soil before having a tree planted. Failing to do so could lead to your new tree dying in short order. If you wish, we can check the soil for you and then provide you with a selection of trees that will be a good match for the soil as it is.
SAFETY: There are myriad safety considerations that come into play where trees are involved. First, will the roots of the tree cause structural damage to your foundation? Will a high wind event bring branches down on your house? Also, some trees attract pests such as bark beetles, wasps, caterpillars along with various types of blight. Make sure you know the risks before choosing a particular type of tree.
SIZE: When fully grown will the tree or shrub “fit the space”. It’s difficult to say by just looking at the space. In fact, you or someone else will need to carefully measure the place where you intend to plant the tree(s) to ensure that space can support the tree(s) you want to plant there. And don’t forget; it’s the size of the mature trees that matters.
LIGHT/NUISANCE: Is the tree likely to block out a view or light in future years or could it overhang (and thus be a nuisance) to a neighbour? Also, one of the many reasons trees add value to a property is because they provide shade. But, while you may want shade over the patio, you may not want the tree casting shadows on your south facing windows that get all that nice warm sunshine during the cold weather months. Finally, you should avoid planting trees too close to the property boundary as they may cause issues with your neighbours when they grow.
MAINTENANCE & AFTERCARE: Trees need watering! Many fail if not watered or left untended. Do not plant in grass sward and ensure grass is not allowed to grow up to the tree (keep at least 0.5m radius clear of all grass). An application of slow-release fertiliser and/or mulch in the spring will help a new tree on its way.
IS IT THE RIGHT TIME?: You may be anxious to get on with planting trees on your property but you have to ask yourself if now is the best time to do so. While there are exceptions, the general rule is that most trees and shrubs should be planted in the early spring or during the fall. But, like we said, there are exceptions to this rule so you’ll want to consult with an expert regarding the type of tree you have in mind.
COST: Planting larger specimens has the advantage of instance impact and scale but the disadvantages of higher cost, aftercare and risk of failure; whereas a smaller specimen is cheaper, requires less maintenance and is more likely to succeed – plan accordingly!
At Down To Earth Trees, we believe trees are the most striking living features of any urban environment. But they require proper planning, care and maintenance to ensure they are a safe addition to your garden or property.
Trust the Pros at Down to Earth
At Down to Earth we offer an affordable professional tree planting service in Essex, London, Kent, Surrey and Sussex. Our team members are highly trained in all aspects of arboriculture and will work closely with you to select just the right trees for your property.
To learn more about our comprehensive tree planting service, or for further enquiries regarding tree planting or any tree-related matters, feel free to talk to one of our experts. We’d be happy to assist. And don’t forget; we plant trees or shrubs (or both) and we are available for site visits should you want a face to face consultation.
For further enquiries regarding tree planting or any tree-related matters, feel free to talk to one of our experts. We’d be happy to assist.
Areas we cover
We cover most of the South East including Kent, Surrey, Sussex, London and Essex.
