Part 2 – Things to Consider When Choosing the Replacement Plant – Consider the Ultimate Size of The Tree
You can get exciting ideas for a replacement plant from visiting arboretums, but you should go with a list of things to consider as you look. You will absolutely need to consider the ultimate size of the tree. Do you need a tree that will stay 25 feet tall and not overwhelm your space? Do you have a place large enough for a specimen shade tree that will get over 50 feet tall and 50 feet wide? The prospects are many and your arborist can help you more extensively with this list, so make sure to consult them in this process.
If you have a tighter space, it might be a good idea to look into an ornamental tree because planting ornamental trees near houses will help if you don’t want them to outgrow the space or soil volume. Traditional ornamental plants you should consider are magnolias, cherries, dogwoods. With sizes ranging from 6 – 30 feet tall, ornamental trees can provide a variety of interest for many seasons. If you wanted a tree that packs a punch, try the native Eastern Redbud (Cersis canadensis) or Fringetree (Chionanthus virginicus) or lesser used Carolina Silverbell (Halesia tetraptera).
If you have a space big enough to handle a tree that ultimately reached 50-100 feet, then you would want to plant a shade tree. Oaks and maples are the traditional shade trees you would look into, but some of the larger trees that people seldom think about are trees like the deciduous Dawn Redwood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides) or the Baldcypress (Taxodium distichum). The last two will trick your neighbors into thinking you planted an evergreen, but when they lose their needles in fall, they reveal their magnificent architectural beauty.
Whatever the size of the space, there is a right plant that will fill the place left by the removal or the space left in your heart. Make sure to do your research on the ultimate size of the tree and if it will fit your space and most importantly, have fun exploring the amazing variety of trees that is there for you.
