3 low-maintenance trees to consider for your property
Few things in nature are as breathtaking as a beautiful landscape. That beauty is perhaps one reason why many homeowners spend so much time and expend so much effort on their lawns and gardens.
Though plenty of homeowners love spending time in the yard, others may not be so inclined. For the latter group, low-maintenance trees can be just what the doctor ordered. Low-maintenance tress can provide the beauty that nature-loving homeowners desire without all the extra work of more needy plants. It is always best to consult a local landscaping professional prior to planting to ensure that a tree will thrive in a given climate. In preparation for that consultation, homeowners can study this list of three low-maintenance trees while recognizing that all trees may need a little extra TLC in extreme weather.
JACARANDA
Instantly identifiable by its purple blooms, the jacaranda tree is native to South America, which makes it ideal in warm climates. The jacaranda is considered a shade tree, and if or when it sheds its leaves, those leaves can typically be mowed, saving homeowners the work of raking them. However, the online home and garden resource The Spruce notes that jacaranda trees can require substantial maintenance when planted near surfaces where people walk, such as driveways and patios. So when planting jacaranda trees, it’s ideal to do so in locations where falling leaves will land exclusively on grass.
AMERICAN ARBORVITAE
The Arbor Day Foundation notes that the American arborvitae requires almost no care when it is used as a hedge or a screen. That is a popular use for this versatile specimen that has a narrow, pyramid shape. Though it does not provide the bright blast of color offered by the jacaranda, the American arborvitae creates an elegant look that offers considerable privacy as well.
JAPANESE RED MAPLE
The Home Depot notes that Japanese red maples are very lowmaintenance trees that can adapt to various soil types and grow in an assortment of light conditions. During dry periods, however, the ADF notes the importance of keeping soil consistently moist. Various types of soil can accommodate the Japanese red maple, so this is a consideration for any homeowner looking to add some color to their lawns without a lot of extra work.
When considering new trees for a property, homeowners can easily be persuaded by the beauty of the tree. Though that’s worthy of consideration, homeowners who want low-maintenance trees should speak to a gardening professional about the work required to maintain a tree’s beauty throughout the year, especially during periods of drought or other adverse conditions. In addition, ask the gardening pro to recommend noninvasive trees. Planting invasive trees can be harmful and cause damage to surrounding plants, which can be costly and time-consuming to address.