If you’re making a few changes to your yard, adding a tree can both increase the attractiveness of your home and boost the value of your property. Even if you don’t intend to sell your home in the near future, it makes sense to consider the potential added value of a tree before selecting one. After all, it will (hopefully) grow there for a very long time!

So on that note, you might be wondering about the most popular trees, and why many home buyers tend to prefer them. These are just suggestions, of course, and individual tastes do vary, but many people appreciate the following species:

• Crepe myrtle
• Japanese maple
• Ornamental cherry
• Magnolia
• Citrus trees

Crepe myrtles, ornamental cherry trees, and magnolias are all known for their beautiful blooms, whereas Japanese maples produce brilliant red foliage. Citrus trees, of course, produce delicious fruit which many people enjoy growing in their own yards. In the past some homeowners bemoaned fruit trees as “messy”, but these species have enjoyed an uptick of popularity in recent years due to growing interest in local and organic food.

What about trees that are unpopular with buyers? Again, this issue can often be a matter of taste. But in fire-prone areas, gum trees are generally a very bad idea. These trees are highly flammable.

When choosing a new tree for your yard, remember to consider space issues. Don’t plant the tree too close to your home, driveway, sidewalks, or other concrete structures that could be disturbed by the tree’s roots. Also consider the future height of the tree, to avoid shading areas you don’t want shaded, or blocking important views. Finally, remember that all trees require pruning throughout the years, both for safety and aesthetic reasons. If you have questions about tree trimming and other aspects of tree care, give us a call and we’ll be happy to help.