Thursday, June 22, 2023

A Guide to Shade Trees

Are you looking to add dimension to your landscaping with new trees? The first of many decisions you’ll have to make is what kind of tree you want to add, on top of where to buy it and then where to plant it. At Root’s Nurseries, we are proud to carry a range of shade trees that will thrive in your Ephrata landscape!

Shade trees offer so much to any landscape, so we have compiled a short guide to shade trees to get you started. If you have more questions about shade trees or are ready to add a shade tree to your landscape – contact us!

Types of Shade Trees

There are many types of shade trees out there, but here are just a few of our favorites! These trees can help provide shade and all of their other benefits – and are all available from Root’s Nurseries!

-        Maples

-        Oaks

-        Elms

-        Hornbeams

-        Lindens

-        Zelkovas

If you are interested in learning more or want to know about other types of shade trees we carry, give us a call!


Benefits of Shade Trees

Your new shade tree will provide a wide range of benefits as it grows and matures. They not only improve the appearance of your property, but they also provide:

-        Shade from the Sun

-        Shelter for Animals

-        Cooler Temperatures

-        Better Air Quality

-        Soil Erosion Control

-        Increased Property Values

-        Climate Control

-        Noise Reduction

Caring for Shade Trees

Before you buy a new tree, be sure you have an idea of how to care for it! Many people assume that tree care stops once the tree is planted, and they aren’t too far off, but there are a few things that you should keep in mind to make sure your tree grows happy and healthy! Beyond simply pruning and fertilizing as needed, also keep these tips in mind.

-        Plant it Right. As roots will spread outward, be sure to dig a wide and shallow hole to plant new trees. The nursery where you purchase your tree can give you more specific guidance for the type of tree you purchased, so be sure to ask them!

-        Give it Room to Grow. Equally as important as planting it correctly to allow your new tree to thrive, you have to decide where to plant it. As many shade trees grow to be quite large, planting them directly next to your house does not give the roots space to grow as they will be hindered by your foundation. Be sure you think about the size your new tree will become, rather than simply how big it is when planting it.

-        Water Deeply. During any droughts, it’s important to make sure your trees are still being watered thoroughly. It is important to water deeply during especially dry weather so the water actually reaches the roots which are often 6-12 inches below the soil.

Are you looking for a shade tree for your home in Ephrata? At Root’s Nurseries we can help you choose the perfect shade tree to complement your landscaping and lifestyle. Contact us today at 717-898-0041 or contact us!