Here’s Why Front Yard Tree Placement Is Important for Your Greenville, NC, Residence

There’s no question that a tree can add a lot to your property, giving it a splash of color, some cool shade on a hot summer day, and more. However, planting a tree in your front yard requires some careful thought and planning in terms of what kind of tree you choose to plant and where to plant it. 

As a tree service in Greenville, NC, we work with many homeowners dealing with the consequences of poor front yard tree placement. Discover more about how to choose the perfect spot for a tree in your front yard. 

Planting a tree requires a location with plenty of sunlight, good soil, and enough space for the mature tree.

Most trees need at least six hours of sunlight per day. However, the effect on your home’s temperature is also a concern.

Front yard tree placement matters to your home’s interior temperature and natural light. A large shade tree can help reduce cooling costs in the summer, but it can also block winter sunlight, making your home colder in the winter. Before planting, consider how the fully grown tree will impact how much light streams through the windows. 

A large tree can completely take over your yard and cause multiple problems. If you have a smaller lot, a tree like a live oak or weeping willow that requires a great deal of space to accommodate its root system isn’t the best choice. Instead, a smaller ornamental tree like a crape myrtle or dogwood can add color without taking up too much space.

In general, you should plant trees at least 15 to 20 feet away from the foundation. You also need to consider the distance from the septic system and underground pipes. Planting trees too close can cause root infiltration and problems with leaks.

Different types of trees thrive in different soils. However, you also need to consider the soil volume, and how deep the roots can grow. When tree roots grow too close to the surface, the tree is at risk of toppling over. 

Choosing the right tree for your front yard also means taking into account things like:

• Local restrictions and requirements; your HOA may have a list of preferred or approved types of trees
• Proximity to power lines, property lines, and fences 
• Existing trees in the yard 
• Tree growth rate and maintenance requirements; for example, an evergreen tree requires less maintenance than a tree like a river birch that will drop leaves in the yard

Keeping these points in mind ensures the tree is a positive addition, not a problem. 

If you want to plant a tree in your Greenville, NC, yard but aren’t sure where to start, contact Ultimate Tree Service at (252) 886-0372. We can help with front yard tree placement and care, as well as other tree services, like showing you how to graft a tree branch.