There are just so many trees out there to choose from, how on earth do you narrow down your choices? Tree selection has become more complicated these days as more and more kinds of trees are grown and sold at your local nursery.

You want to choose the right tree, and you know that it is important, but how do you go about it? Well, don’t worry, because we’ve got your back. Here at Darryl’s Tree Care we’ve seen many trees located in the wrong place for their welfare, and that of the structures around them.

In this article, we will cover 3 simple criteria that you can use to assess tree selection possibilities for your garden. We hope that they will guide you through the process of making a decision so that you can choose the right tree for your situation.

Size

The first thing that you really need to get right when you go to choose a tree for your backyard is size. You need to choose the right tree for the size of your yard. That is, don’t be tempted to squeeze a huge tree into a small space, as that will not end well.

Have you ever seen a home that is getting almost eaten alive by a nearby tree? It can really detract from the look of your house. Tree choice is something that requires a lot of thought, otherwise, you may regret your decisions years down the track when it’s too late to do anything except get your tree trimmed constantly.

Another warning when it comes to tree selection concerns power lines. You need to ensure there is plenty of space for your new tree to grow upwards, and that there are no buildings or other obstructions in the way, including existing trees.

The general rule is to allow for 1.5 times the expected width of the grown tree around the planting site. The information tag on your tree should tell you what the end width of the tree will be.

Function

In order to choose the right tree, you need to take function into the equation of tree selection. What do you want your tree to do?

To choose the right tree, you need to consider your situation. Do you want shade? Exactly how much? This will determine whether you should opt for a medium or large tree, as will your available room in the backyard.

Do you want to choose a tree that will give you more privacy? Then you may want to decide on an evergreen tree, as then your privacy shield won’t drop its leaves to become see-through every Autumn.

Maybe your tree selection is governed by the need for a tree that your future kids can climb? Or perhaps you just want some greenery to frame your outdoor entertaining area? Other uses for trees may involve harvesting fruit or nuts to offset the family grocery bills.

You may be guided to a certain tree selection based on a love of a particular tree for its flowers or leaf colour, or maybe you intend on picking something that brings local insects or birds to the garden.

There are endless potential purposes for trees, but the most important thing is that you consider what function your new tree will have in your backyard. That way you can ensure you choose the right tree for your desired effect.

Conditions

In order to choose the right tree for your backyard, you need to ensure that the conditions in your garden match the conditions that your potential tree thrives in.

Soils range from sandy to clay to everything in between. Some areas get more rain than others, and some plants are prone to being singed by the summer sun if they are put in the wrong spot.

Does your new sapling need full sun or partial shade? Does it need well-drained soil? It’s a good idea to check out what conditions your tree prefers before planting in the ground and hoping for the best.

There are things you can do to help beyond tree selection, such as using an irrigation system if your tree needs more frequent watering, or using fertiliser or mulch to aid the health of the soil.

But really, if you want to choose the right tree for your yard, you really should go to the effort of doing a bit of research to ensure your garden conditions are compatible with the climate preferences of your tree.

Need help with your trees?

Here at Darryl’s Tree Care, we’ve been helping people get control of their trees for years. If you need tree stump removal, tree trimming, tree selection help, or even possum control or a hazardous tree assessment, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.

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The real costs of a tree removal service

Like any professional service, there are many factors that can influence the cost of a tree removal service. What you’re really paying for is the professionals, equipment, and time spent on a tree removal. These can be influenced by the type of tree you have and the size of it. There’s also the challenge of getting access to your backyard. It’s not always easy to get tree removal equipment in and out of a backyard. Sometimes more specialised equipment is required to reach your tree in the first place. 

The condition of the tree itself is another thing to consider. A healthy tree can present all sorts of challenges such as strong, wide-spreading roots. One of the best ways to calculate your tree removal cost is to get a quote. Many tree removal services in Melbourne can provide you with a free quote. In order to do this, a professional tree care expert will first assess the condition of your tree. Only then can you get an accurate quote. 

Here’s a full list of factors that can influence the cost of removing your tree:

• Tree size
• Tree location
• Your home address
• Relative location of buildings and utilities around the tree
• Access to the tree with vehicles and equipment
• The slope of your block
• Equipment and vehicles required
• Whether loose wood and debris is to be removed
• Whether a tree stump removal is required

Size matters 

Here at Daryl’s Tree Care, we often use the size of the tree as an indicator of tree removal cost. First, we classify whether you have a small, medium, or large size tree. Your utility companies will also need to be called or a service like dial-before-you-dig to ensure there are no plumbing lines or electrical concerns. All of these costs can vary so much depending on things such as pest infestation, storm damage, and proximity to plumbing/power. 

Tree location

The location of your tree can also have a big influence on tree removal cost. Your tree could be placed near something that makes it difficult to access with equipment. If your tree is placed near power lines, extra safety precautions need to be taken. The same can be said for trees that are growing near gas or water pipes. 

Your tree may also be in a tight position such as the corner of a backyard or right next to your home. Both of these positions carry a serious risk of damage to structures such as your home’s roof or the fence. Extra safety precautions and equipment are often essential for these types of tree removal services. 

Your tree’s condition

The condition of your tree can also make a tree removal service more complicated. In some cases, it can be more expensive to take down a healthy tree that’s thriving. Healthier trees are stronger and usually have more established roots underground. With thicker and stronger roots, it can be harder to carry out a full stump removal. Healthy tree wood is generally more solid and harder to cut through. 

By contrast, an unhealthy tree that’s dying may be easier to remove. Dying trees often have more brittle and weak structures. This quality can make them easier to take down and remove their stumps from the ground. One thing to note is that they can pose more of a safety risk. If a tree is at risk of collapsing then extra safety precautions may need to be taken. This can also result in more safety equipment and staff on site. 

Call Daryl’s Tree Care for a quote

Still, not sure about a tree removal cost for your backyard? Here at Daryl’s Tree Care, we can provide you with an accurate quote on tree removal. The first thing our tree care specialists will need to do is look at the trees on your property. They need to assess the condition, size and access requirement for your tree/s. Once this is done we can provide you with a quote on tree removal cost.

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Call a Tree Care Specialist if you see any of these signs

A tree can be a fantastic natural feature in your backyard. But without proper care, your tree can become unhealthy. When a tree’s health starts to deteriorate it can become a safety hazard. Branches can become weak and fall off. In extreme situations, a tree can completely fall over and cause damage to your property.

To protect your home, it’s best to know when a tree is becoming a safety risk. That’s when tree removals are often recommended. There are many signs you can look out for when it comes to tree safety. Some of these signs show poor tree health. Offers may show signs of a pest infestation. But it’s not all bad news. Identify symptoms early on and you may be able to save your tree.

1. The roots are starting to rot

A poor root system is often one of the biggest signs a plant is dying. Tree roots are essential for a tree to absorb nutrients, grow, and maintain health. Any sign of decay or damage to your tree’s roots could be an indicator that your tree is on its way out. One way to identify if the roots are decaying is by assessing the ground around your tree. Identify if the ground has lifted or if the roots look severed.

Another way to tell if the roots are unhealthy is by looking at how the tree is standing. If your tree has started to lean to one side (especially after a storm) then this could indicate that the roots are weak.

2. Cracks in the trunk

Over time your tree may develop cracks in its trunk. The ones you really need to look out for are those that ap[pear between two opposite branches. Cracks like these can be a sign of serious structural damage. These cracks can show your tree is not strong enough to withstand much pressure from the elements.

One of the biggest risks associated with these cracks is damage from storms. Strong winds and heavy storms can strike your tree throughout the year. Your tree may struggle to withstand the pressure that comes from multiple storms. The result? The tree trunk could snap and fall over, causing damage to your home.

3. Signs of disease

Your tree can look strong and sturdy but it may still be vulnerable to diseases. Another problem with tree diseases is that they can spread. So it’s best to watch out for your tree and the others that surround it. One of the most obvious signs of disease is the condition of your tree’s leaves. Discolouration of tree leaves could be a sign of disease.

If the leaves are deforming this could also be a sign of disease. Over autumn it can be hard to identify whether leaves are falling from disease or just its annual growth phase. A change in pattern in the way leaves regrow in spring could be a sign of disease. Another sign to look out for is how different sections grow. It may just be one area of branches with a disease and therefore has no leaves regrowing on it.

4. Cavities in the trunk

Cavities in the trunk of your tree can make great spaces for local wildlife to rest. It’s not uncommon for possums and birds to make themselves comfortable in these little nooks. But these cavities could also be a sign of danger. If your tree’s trunk is full of holes then it could be an obvious sign the tree doesn’t have a solid structure anymore. So it could collapse at any moment.

Cavities in the trunk of a tree are usually caused by pests. Insects can quickly make a meal out of your tree and make substantial nests in the trunk. Cavities can also be an obvious sign that your tree is dying. Another obvious sign is the presence of fungi or mushrooms growing on your tree. They usually feed off dead or dying trees.

5. Close to your home and pedestrians

Sometimes a tree’s growing position can be a safety hazard in itself. Think about how close your tree is growing to your house. If it’s too close to your home’s roofline it is most likely shedding leaves onto the roof. A buildup of leaves can block gutters, cause flooding and costly water damage to your roof. Full tree removal may not be necessary. You could just need a few branches removed.

There’s also the risk of falling branches to consider. When heavy branches fall they can cause costly damage to your roof. If your tree currently has branches that are weakened from a storm or even disease, it’s best to get them removed asap. If your tree is situated near a pedestrian walkway then it’s also important to get it looked at. The risk of falling branches can put any pedestrian in immediate danger right outside your home.

Call a qualified tree removal expert now

Does the tree in your backyard show any of these warning signs? Don’t take a risk on the safety of your family and home. A tree removal expert like an Arborist can assess the health of your tree. In some cases your tree may not be a lost cause. Trees can be treated for pests and diseases without the need for tree removal.

A tree inspection is also just a great way to make your home safer for anyone. If your tree is suffering from disease or damage, then a tree removal may be your best option. In comparison, a tree removal can be far less costly than paying for repairs to your home. Here at Daryl’s Tree Care, our qualified tree care experts can carry out a full inspection of your tree. They’ll look for all the signs of an unhealthy tree. They can recommend the best course of action.

Sometimes all that’s required is a tree trimming service. But if the safety risk is too great, we will recommend a full tree removal service. Tree removals are usually done to protect you from falling branches or future tree collapses from storms. Simply call us today on 9897 4418 to book a tree inspection.

The post 5 warning signs you need a professional tree removal service appeared first on Daryl’s Tree Care And Surgery.

Discover which tree removal option is suitable for your tree.

When it’s time to remove a tree from your home there are a few crucial steps you need to take. The tree should be inspected and removed by a professional. Arborists specialise in the maintenance and removal of trees. They understand how a tree grows along with the most effective way to remove them.

What’s also important is safety. When a tree is removed correctly it needs to be done with the right safety practices to ensure no one is at risk of harm. When a tree is not removed correctly there can be a risk of injury. This often occurs when people use the wrong tools or misuse equipment.

Another factor to consider is the potential damage to your property. Your tree may be close to an easement, water pipes, or electrical wires. You could run the risk of damaging these property features if you don’t check the ground near your tree. After most of the tree has been removed from the ground up, it’s important to focus on the tree stump.

A professional Arborist will use a number of tools and equipment to safely remove a tree stump. Depending on the type of tree and its size there are a number of ways that a tree stump can be removed. The two most common methods are stump grinding and stump removal.

Why does a tree stump need to be removed?

A tree stump that gets left behind can cause a number of issues in your backyard. It won’t just take up space and create an eyesore. Stumps that get left behind will decay over time. As the roots start to rot they become a breeding ground for fungus and pests like termites.

The roots will also continue to become an obstacle for any construction or renovations such as installing fencing, concrete or pavers on the ground. It’s obstacles and issues like these which encourage people to book a tree stump removal service.

Stump grinding

Using specialist machinery, a professional Arborist will grind down whatever is left of the tree stump. The stump can be reduced down to ground level or up to 12 inches below so it can be well hidden. This process allows you to re-turf or build over the site. Another great outcome is that the portion of the stump removed is reduced to mulch which can be recycled for gardening.

After the process of stump grinding, you will still have the tree’s root system in the ground. So unfortunately, the roots will still be in the way if you ever want to dig underground and install something new such as a decking post.

Stump removal

Compared to grinding, stump removal is far more complex. It involves the process of removing the entire stump from the ground. This process includes removing the root system. Stump removal is commonly chosen by an Arborist when they have assessed the roots pose an issue to your garden.

In some cases, tree roots may become infected, spreading fungus and attracting pests to your garden. Even after the majority of the tree has been removed, it’s still possible that it can grow back from the stump. It’s just another reason why some Arborists recommend a complete stump removal. This process eliminates the possibility of the tree ever growing back.

Which one is the best choice for me?

The choice between stump grinding and stump removal really comes down to what you’re planning on doing with your backyard. Some people remove a tree for aesthetics. They want it out of the way so it doesn’t have a drastic effect on the look of the backyard. Other times someone may choose to remove a tree that poses a threat to safety.

If a tree collapses, it can cause costly damage to your property. Another reason to remove a tree may be to eliminate the threat of pests. In some cases, a tree can become home to invasive insects like termites or elm leaf beetles that could migrate to other trees or your property to cause more damage.

A professional Arborist can assess the health of your tree and let you know whether a stump removal or stump grinding service is more suitable for your tree. At this point, it’s also best to let the Arborists know what your plans are for the area where your tree currently is.

Get professional advice from Daryl’s Tree Care

Here at Daryl’s Tree Care and Surgery, we have a team of dedicated and professional Arborists. Our Arborists can come to your property and assess the condition of your tree. They can recommend either a stump grinding or stump removal service based on your needs.

Our team of professionals have the equipment and the expertise to carry out a thorough removal of any tree stump in your backyard. So call us today on 9897 4418 to get your tree assessed and removed professionally.

The post What’s the difference between stump grinding and stump removal? appeared first on Daryl's Tree Care And Surgery.

What you should know before planting a shade tree in your backyard.

A shade tree is a term gardeners use to describe any type of tree grown specifically for providing shade. Large tree species can establish themselves into wide-spreading canopies to provide some much-needed shade for your yard. This shade can help protect plants from extreme heat or even your home. The cooling effects of shade on your home could even help reduce temperatures and energy bills.

When you invest in planting a shade tree you’re investing in the future of your yard. Choosing the right shade tree is a long-term decision that will affect the state of your yard for years, maybe even decades to come. So choose wisely! It will have a drastic effect on the look and condition of your yard.

Like any shrub or bush you want to maintain, you’ll need to take good care of your shade tree if you want it to flourish. There are many things you’ll need to consider when planting your shade tree. Consider the positioning, soil, mulch, and maintenance. You’ll need to consider the local climate and a pruning schedule to maintain it. There are tree care services available that can help you with this maintenance.

Space and positioning

One of the first things you need to consider for a shade tree is how much space it will take up. How big will it grow? Visit your local nursery and the trees there should have labels with information on how it will grow and mature. Generally speaking, a young tree is likely to grow 2-3 metres a year before it slows down to maybe half a metre each year. A tree’s growth is also influenced by its access to water. So its growth is also determined by its overall health too.

You should also consider the root spread of a tree. A root spread is essentially the area in which a tree’s roots are likely to spread. A tree’s roots can spread up to 2-3 times the canopy radius. So if your tree’s canopy radius is already 3 metres, then it’s likely the roots have already spread out at least 9 metres from the stump of the tree! Don’t forget about the plants around your tree. You’ll have an extensive spread of tree roots sucking up all the water and nutrients from the soil.

Any tree care services provider will tell you that where you plant your shade tree in the yard affects which areas get sunlight. Plant your tree in the wrong spot and your veggie patch may never receive the sunlight it needs to thrive. Plant your tree next to your verandah and you may never experience that gorgeous view of sunrise while you sip on your morning coffee. Some trees are deciduous (leaves their leaves in winter). So you won’t get full shade all the time. A professional arborist can assess your yard and provide helpful advice on where to place your new shade tree.

Planting tips

After choosing where to plant your tree, it’s time to consider what it will look like. Do you want a shade tree with lovely flowers, beautiful foliage or one that’s prone to attracting birds? After choosing the tree species you want you can figure out the maintenance requirements for it. Different species have their own requirements for nourishment. Some don’t need as much water as others. Some need to grow in soil with good drainage. Ask any tree care services provider and they’ll tell you that all shade tree species have their own unique maintenance needs.

When you first plant your tree it’s likely going to be young and not very established. During this time you’ll need to provide water directly on the stump and the area around it. So allow your hose to trickle water over the base of the tree for an extended period of time whenever you water it. When your new tree has established it will have enough new roots start growing vigorously. Consider placing a soaker hose around the perimeter of the tree canopy. This will encourage the roots to spread outwards and establish a stronger foundation for the tree.

Your tree will continue to thrive if it’s growing in moist soil. Adding layers of bark, mulch, and even compost to an area between the trunk and perimeter of the branch canopy will provide optimum growing conditions for the tree. Mulching will help eliminate weeds and keep the soil underneath the tree moist. For your layers of mulch try not to go too thick. Large and thick layers of mulch can limit soil aeration in heavy ground and cause roots to

Ongoing maintenance & care tips

Mulching and watering aren’t the only things you need to consider when taking care of your tree. As your tree starts to mature you’ll discover lots of other things you can do to maintain it properly. It’s important to establish the shape of your tree early on before it fully matures. The best species of shade trees usually have a wide-spreading, umbrella-shaped canopy which effectively blocks sunlight. If this is the shape you want then regular pruning can help guide it.

Consider the tree care services of a professional arborist (tree care specialist) to look after the pruning and shaping of your tree. They can help you establish a yearly pruning schedule to ensure your tree keeps growing in that desirable canopy shape you want. Branches should grow out from the tree just above head level. That way you can easily stand and walk underneath it. Pruning the lower branches of your tree will help ‘train’ it to grow and spread its canopy at the right height.

Sometimes it’s better to uproot and destroy a tree rather than save it. So it’s important you know the signs to look out for when your tree starts becoming unhealthy. A tree can become sick for many reasons such as lack of watering, poor soil quality, or poor access to sunlight. Faded leaves can show a lack of nutrients. Damaged limbs or tree trunks could also be a sign your tree is not in the best of health. An infestation of insects could also be a sign that your tree is unhealthy or dying. Another tell-tale sign is bleeding sap. When a tree loses sap it’s also losing vital nutrients. It can be a sign that your tree has a disease, fungus, or other critical health problem.

Ask a professional arborist

Arborists are professionals trained in the art of planting and caring for trees. So if you’re still stumped for advice consider the services of a local arborist like Daryl’s Tree Care and Surgery. The tree care experts there offer a range of services to help maintain and look after your shade tree. As certified arborists, they can assist with tree selection and planting to get you started. When it comes to ongoing maintenance they can also assist with trimming and pest control.

If your shade tree is starting to look a little worse for wear, it may be time for a replacement. The arborists at Daryl’s Tree Care can also assist with tree and stump removal services. Depending on the size of your dyeing tree, you may have to request a stump grinding or stump removal service. Daryl’s Tree Care can assess the condition of your shade tree and recommend the right solution for your particular yard.

So when you decide to plant a shade tree in your backyard, there’s a lot to think about. Not all shade trees are easy to maintain. Like anything worthwhile, they need the right care and maintenance to yield great results for your garden. So don’t be afraid to ask for advice from a professional arborist when it’s time to pick a shade tree.

Get the right advice before you plant a shade tree. Ask Daryl’s Tree Care & Surgery today.

The post Tree care services and tips for shade trees appeared first on Daryl's Tree Care And Surgery.

1

JACARANDA

Jacaranda mimosifolia

Jacarandas are one of San Diego’s most spectacular flowering trees. In late spring into the summer months, it’s hard to go a day driving through town without seeing at least one jacaranda and its popular lavender, bell-shaped blooms. These flowers grace us with their presence for two months before falling and creating a carpet of color on the ground beneath.

When not in bloom, the jacaranda is still one of San Diego’s finest-looking ornamental trees. Once established, it’s a fast-growing tree that develops a bright green canopy of fern leaves against the tree’s grayish-brown limbs. It grows fast, but its size at full maturity is quite manageable because it typically only grows to roughly 25 to 40 feet in height, with similar dimensions in canopy spread. The jacaranda is also a popular choice with urban planners due to its “pavement friendly” roots, which, unlike some other common trees like the ficus benjamina, is less likely to damage sidewalks and streets.

There are many wonderful features associated with the jacaranda, but even this beauty can’t be perfect in all aspects. Unfortunately, the jacaranda is a deciduous tree, which means that it loses its foliage every year. So for the winter months, you’re left with an arrangement of bending grey wood in your outdoor space. But hey…neutral colors are all the rage…so apparently it works. As the weather begins to warm up, the tree’s foliage slowly fills the canopy with yellowish-green leaves. It looks sparse and a little sickly, depending on the tree. Not very appealing, to say it nicely — but when the warmest and sunniest season arrives, the jacaranda’s beauty shines once again with its lush green canopy, followed by its magnificent purple blooms.

Purple, bell-shaped flowers

Greyish-brown trunk + limbs

Blooms in spring and summer

Grows to 25-40 feet in height

Pavement-friendly

Fern-like foliage

2

MAGNOLIA

Magnolia grandiflora

The magnolia tree is a very well-known name in the flowering tree category. For all you home decorators, think Joanna Gaines and her popular Magnolia Homes company. But what many do not know is that it is also the most ancient flowering plant that we know of according to fossil records. Surviving through ancient history, there are more than 200 magnolia species that originated mostly in Asia and in the Americas. They are common trees throughout the world, especially in sub-tropical and tropical regions, and are known for their stunning flower display with pink, purple, white, and even yellow blooms.

The most common magnolia in Southern California is the Southern magnolia. It possesses large evergreen leaves that exhibit a deep green color and a unique brownish touch. Then in the late spring and into the summer, the Southern magnolia unveils its beautiful, large, white flowers that contrast so well against its green foliage backdrop. When we say large, we mean large, as the oval-shaped leaves typically range from 5-8 inches in length, and its fragrant flowers possess an 8-inch diameter range.

Compared to the other popular flowering trees on this list, the Southern magnolia is a rather slow-growing tree and is known to take up to 10 years after planting to even blossom. So patience is required! But it won’t stay little forever. It typically matures to a height of 60-80 feet with a canopy spread of roughly 40 feet, and in its most ideal conditions, it even grows taller than 80 feet!

When it comes to trimming a magnolia tree, great news! They don’t require much. But the bad news is that these trees are FINICKY! Trim your tree at the wrong time of the year, and you can kiss the next year’s beautiful flower display goodbye. Even worse, given the right candidate, you could end up killing your tree. Magnolias, especially mature ones, tend to have a hard time recovering from injuries. The best time to trim them is right after its flowering season so that it has sufficient time to heal before winter. Otherwise, trimming a magnolia during the wrong season can result in excessive bleeding, which could weaken the tree and leave it vulnerable.

Large, white flowers

Blooms in spring and summer

Large, deep green leaves with brown bottoms

Very sensitive to prunings

Grows to 60-80 feet in height

Oldest known flowering plant

3

TIPUANA TIPU

Tipuana tipu

Native to South America, the Tipuana tipu, or tipu for short, is one of San Diego’s most popular trees. When not in bloom, it can often be mistaken for the jacaranda, since the two have very similar structures and fern-like foliage. Even arborists, at a distance, may need a moment to determine who’s who. However, once its sunny yellow flowers emerge in the spring and into the summer, there’s no mistaking the two trees.

With its roots in a tropical homeland, the tipu thrives in areas with plenty of warm sunlight, so make sure to plant it in a location with full sun. It loves the heat and can handle San Diego’s hot and dry summers extremely well. This is why it is also a popular choice for desert communities.

The tipu is a choice selection for properties and urban development throughout San Diego due to its rapid growth, pavement-friendly roots, drought resistance, and flowery display. It’s perfect for all you impatient folks who don’t want to wait 10 years for their newly-planted young tree to provide ample shade and a majestic presentation. And even better, if you’re not interested in a huge tree, the tipu is a great choice, as they are medium-sized trees that are usually seen in the 30-50ft range with a wide canopy spread that matches its height.

The Tipuana tipu is a fast-growing tree that typically grows 2-3 feet a year! A young tree has the potential to quickly develop a canopy width of 20 feet just a few years after being transplanted. Due to this rapid growth, it’s important to keep your tipu on a regular trimming schedule. Otherwise, the tree ends up looking like an unkempt child with neverending bedhead. But when properly trimmed, the tipu has the potential of looking amazing — whether it’s covered with yellow blooms or not!

Yellow flowers that bloom in spring + summer

Rapid-growing, growing 2-3 feet a year

Extremely heat- and drought-resistant

Typically grows to 30-50 feet

Pavement-friendly

Fern-like foliage

4

PALO VERDE

Parkinsonia florida, Parkinsonia microphylla, Cerdium ‘ Desert Museum’

The palo verde is another common yellow-blooming tree in San Diego. The name in Spanish means green stick because, as you can guess, it possesses limbs that are green! It’s a unique sight, especially with its yellow blooms that complement the green so well. As the palo verde matures, its trunk and mature branches eventually turn brown, but any new limbs grow out green. Why green? The bark of the palo verde is uncommonly filled with chlorophyll, which allows it to participate in photosynthesis — a job that is normally assigned to the leaves. But for this green wonder, its foliage only contributes one-third of the tree’s food.

Even with its unconventional green limbs and showy flowers that allure people, the palo verde is still one of those trees that you either love or hate. It’s actually a tree that tree trimmers can’t stand! Why? Because these trees are notorious for pain! Yes, their green branches are awesome to look at, but with close examination, you’ll realize that they’re covered with sharp spikes. It’s a desert tree, and it seems to have copied the same spiky qualities of its desert best friend (the cactus, of course). It’s like middle school cliques dressing the same. “Make sure to wear your spikes on Friday!”

As with any tree, one of the palo verde’s goals is reproduction. No harm there. However, this tree is like the “rabbit of the tree world.” Palos love to procreate, and they’re good at it. If left unmanaged, a single tree on a property can multiply into a grove of more than 20 palo verdes in less than 10 years. Also, the tree’s cute and innocent-looking babies don’t go without a fight. Remember those spikes? If you simply go in to pull a baby palo out with bare hands, chances are you’ll get stabbed. It is best to carefully pull at the base where spikes tend to not grow or to use pliers.

Yellow flowers that bloom in spring + summer

Young limbs and trunk are green

Desert tree with low water needs

Medium-sized tree that grows up to 30 feet

Pavement friendly

Branches are covered in spikes

5

EVERGREEN PEAR

Pyrus kawakamii

Native to Taiwan, the evergreen pear is one of San Diego’s standout trees. Is it because it produces a vibrant colorful display of flowers like other trees on this list? No. Does it have delectable juicy pears to eat? No, again. So what’s so special about the evergreen pear? While this tree doesn’t boast of colorful springtime blooms or delicious fruit to eat, it “sticks out of the crowd” due to its distinct flowering season. In the winter, when other trees, like the jacaranda and palo verde, are plain and bare, the evergreen pear showcases its large clusters of white blossoms. It’s a wintry display that’s very appropriate to the season. We may not get snow in the streets of Downtown San Diego or our famous Balboa Park, but we get snow-white laden trees!

The evergreen pear, despite what the name implies, is not an evergreen. It is called an evergreen tree because it has a very short dormant period, causing some people to label it semi-deciduous. In the fall, its foliage morphs to an orangish-red, which drops shortly afterward. Fortunately, it only stays bare for a short period because soon afterward, its canopy becomes engulfed in showy white blooms through the rest of the cold winter season. Then at the end of winter or stretching into spring, the flowers fall to the ground and create a lovely frosty carpet.

The evergreen pear tree — despite its name — does not produce sweet pears for people to eat. Instead, it grows little, brown, inedible fruit that can create a messy nuisance during drop season.

So to sum it up — the evergreen pear is not an evergreen tree, and it doesn’t produce edible pears. Evergreen pear. Just a bit of a misnomer…just a tad.

White flower clusters

Produces inedible fruit

Blooms in winter into early spring

Grows to 15-30 feet in height

Short dormant period

Glossy, green, oval-shaped leaves with pointed tips

6

CRAPE MYRTLE

Lagerstroemia

The crape myrtle tree, also spelled crepe mrytle, is one of San Diego’s most beautiful flowering trees. It’s a dainty little thing that can be found in different varieties with differing height potentials. It ranges from the “very dwarf” varieties that only mature to a range of 1-3 feet to the regular-sized crape myrtles that “soar” to 20 feet. Then there are the varieties in between — dwarfs, semidwarfs, and small. Crape myrtle trees possess colorful flower clusters available in red, pink, lavender, purple, or white. These fragrant flowers grow in puffy clusters that end up dominating the tree’s canopy in the summer and create beautiful displays in San Diego’s landscape.

The crape mystle’s origins take root in China, where it was named “Pai Jih Hung” — meaning hundred days red. Why? Because the crape myrtle has an amazingly long flowering season that lasts 3-4 months! Quite impressive when you consider that the jacaranda tree’s bloom season lasts 2 months, and the magnolia’s flowers appear for a whopping 7-9 days! While the tree was originally named after its long bloom season, here in the United States, it derived its name from the crinkly appearance of its flowers, which resemble crepe paper.

Aside from its stunning display, the crape myrtle has other features that make it a great tree to add to your property. It is unfazed by the hot summer days and drought conditions. But make sure not to test your crape myrtles heat and drought endurance until its roots are well-established. This tree loves the sun, so also make sure to plant it in an area that receives plenty of sunshine. Otherwise, you may have to miss out on its colorful blooms, as it may not produce flowers if it doesn’t receive enough direct sunlight.

Pink, red, lavender, purple, and white flowers

Long bloom season that last 3-4 months

Blooms in summer through the fall

Small tree that comes in a variety of sizes

High-heat and drought resistant

Prefers full sun

7

CORAL TREE

Erythrina

This next tree shares a striking resemblance to ocean corals. We’re talking about the coral tree, of course — a common and fitting sight for beach-loving San Diego. With roughly 130 species of coral trees (Erythrina), this is a popular tree, not just in California, but in temperate, subtropical, and tropical zones worldwide. It even happens to be the national flower of Argentina and Uruguay.

While many coral trees love the tropical heat (as you can see from their places of origin), quite a few do well in San Diego’s semi-arid climate. About a dozen Erythrina species call San Diego home. These include the naked coral from Mexico, the coastal coral and Tambookie thorn coral from Africa, and the Erythrina x sykesii from Australia. And as heat-loving trees, you might have guessed that coral trees require full-sun exposure to thrive, so make sure to plant accordingly, and don’t worry when it gets over 100° outside. Your coral tree is in “sunshine buffet heaven.”

Our local coral trees are distinguishable by their long, thick secondary branches that stem from a SHORT trunk. Some trunks are so short that they seem to barely rise up out of the ground. But just because it posses a short trunk, it doesn’t mean that the rest of the tree stays short, as it has an average height of 20-40 feet and a wide canopy width of 40-60 feet.

When the tree’s branches start at a low point, it looks like the perfect climbing tree for children. But it’s actually deceiving because the coral tree is notorious in the tree service industry for its susceptibility to breakage and tree failure. This is due to its brittle wood, poor structure, and tendency to form included bark, which is basically a weak junction between two limbs that is prone to splitting given the right amount of pressure. So the coral tree is definitely not the tree you would want to build a treehouse in or hang a swing on. Not to mention, some species also have thorns protruding from their trunk and stems.

Now to the flowers. The coral tree’s blooms are in a class of their own. With their fiery-red color and finger-like appearance, the name Erythrina actually stems from the Greek word for red — erythros. Most Erythrina species develop large, red flowers, but some also display deep orange blooms. When most flowering trees in San Diego flaunt white, yellow, or soft hues of pink or purple, the coral tree’s brilliant red makes this tree’s flower presentation an exotic attention-grabber. You can also see its blooms earlier than other trees due to the coral tree’s tendency to display its flowers in the early spring, as opposed to late spring, like most of the other flowering trees in San Diego.

Large red or deep orange flowers

Short trunk + brittle wood

Blooms in early spring

Grows to 20-40 feet in height with wide canopy

Thrives in heat and full sun

Some species have thorns on trunk and limbs

8

WESTERN REDBUD

Cercis occidentalis

Some flowering trees, such as the magnolia and mimosa trees, still retain a good portion of their foliage during bloom season. Other trees become immersed in blooms. The Western redbud is one of those trees. In the spring, hordes of purplish-pink flowers sprout all along the tree’s limbs which last for 2-3 weeks.

There are over 10 redbud species throughout the world, but only two are native to North America. As you may have already guessed, the Western redbud originates from the American Southwest — more specifically from southern Utah, Nevada, Arizona, and California. In fact, it has even been named the California redbud, as it’s a native tree that you can find in canyon bottoms, creeks, and other areas with moister soil in California.

Growing to a height of only 10-20 feet and 10-15 feet wide, the Western or California (whichever name floats your boat) redbud is a great choice for anyone desiring a small tree with pastel-colored blooms. This truly is a springtime tree because unlike many of San Diego’s other flowering trees that hold onto their blooms until summer, the Western redbud typically only possesses its flowers from March to May.  It really does scream, “Springtime is here!” with its showy flaunting of pink and purple hues.

The Western redbud is a tree that loves the seasons. In the spring, it bedazzles us with its lovely flowers. Then it drops its blooms to make way for its green, heart-shaped foliage, all ready to soak up the hot sun in the summer.  In the fall, the green foliage transforms into comforting autumn colors, which eventually drops toward the end of the year to expose a naked “winter-looking” tree. But be patient, because like clockwork, when the first month of spring comes around, so will those charming blooms!

Pastel purplish-pink flowers

Native to California

Blooms in spring

Grows to 10-20 feet in height

Does best in full sun + regular deep watering

Heart-shaped leaves that are green in summer + change color in autumn

Photo credit: cultivar413

9

GOLD MEDALLION TREE

Cassia leptophylla

The gold medallion tree showcases an explosion of yellow pom-poms during San Diego’s summer months. With its basketball-size flower clusters growing on the ends of its limbs, it truly does look like an explosive fireworks display!

Stemming from Brazil, this is a tropical tree that does best in tropical climates, but still manages to flourish in San Diego’s dry climate. If you’ve visited some of the tropical regions in the United States, the gold medallion probably reminds you of some of the trees from those states. That’s because it has two very popular cousins — the golden shower tree that is so common in the South and the rainbow shower tree that populates the Hawaiian Islands. Both have amazing flower spectacles and so does the gold medallion tree! It’s a family trait.

The gold medallion is a fast-growing tree that sprouts to about 20-25 feet in height, with an average canopy spread of 20-30 feet that is composed of long compound leaves. Being a tropical tree, it does well through San Diego’s heat spells and requires a planting location that receives full sun. After being translated, the gold medallion will require a frequent water schedule until its roots become well-established. Then it will require less water and will tolerate drought conditions very well.

Like other common flowering trees in San Diego, the gold medallion is a member of the legume family, so after the flowers drop, LOOOONG brown seed pods that can grow to about two feet in length begin to take over the canopy. Not too pretty of a sight when you see a populace of brown seed pods dangling from a tree, especially when that tree was looking quite dapper with its green foliage and showy yellow blooms just a few months prior — but beauty is fleeting.

Large yellow flower clusters

Does well in high-heat and drought conditions

Blooms in summer

Grows to 20-25 feet in height

Grows long brown seed pods in autumn

Long compound leaves

10

MIMOSA TREE

Albizia julibrissin

If you like the sight of hummingbirds, then the popular silk tree, also known as the mimosa tree, would make a great addition to your property’s landscape. Hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies absolutely love this tree’s uniquely-shaped, pink blooms.  And even better, property owners love this tree for its total package. This is a tree that is not only stunning when it’s in bloom, but it’s also extremely hardy, fast-growing, and easy to care for.

Originating from China, the silk tree was brought to the United States in the mid-18th century, and now can be found in most states from coast to coast. It derived its name, silk tree, from its flower puffs that resemble silk threads. If you have ever traveled to Hawaii, this is a tree that brings a sense of familiarity because it looks nearly identical to its cousin, the monkeypod tree, which reigns as one of Hawaii’s most prominent trees. The silk tree possesses a tropical display and does very well in high temperatures. While it may not be the tropics, it still flourishes in the dry, hot summer months in San Diego. It may be a heat-tolerant and drought-tolerant tree, but being a tropical tree, if you want your mimosa to reach its highest potential, then it would be best to keep it on a regular, deep-water schedule.

In the late spring and into the summer months, the mimosa tree shifts into “bedazzle” mode when its pink blooms emerge. Unfortunately, as the saying goes, “All good things must come to an end.” It holds true with the silk tree. After its beautiful bloom season ends, the tree’s “ugly” season begins, as its gorgeous art show turns into a sad exhibit of 6-inch seed pods. Initially, it’s not too bad, but then the tree’s fern-like foliage drop when the temperatures begin to drop. Then in the winter, all that is left is a straggly, leafless tree with hundreds of drooping, brown seed pods.

As with any tree, when the silk tree is first planted in a new location, it goes through a shock period that can last a couple of years. You won’t see much action during this time. You won’t even see flowers. But once its roots get firmly established (typically 2-5 years), the tree quickly grows until it reaches its plateau height, which typically lands in the 20-30ft range. And after years of waiting, you’ll finally get to see those spectacular flower clusters. But before that happens, the tree needs to reach a certain level of maturity before it can produce flowers. In general, the mimosa typically doesn’t start producing blooms until it reaches a height of 10 feet.

Pink flower puffs that attract hummingbirds + butterflies

Heat- and drought-tolerant

Blooms in late spring into summer

Grows to 20-30 feet in height

Produces long seed pods

Fern-like foliage

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