Is it important to know what planting zone I'm
in before selecting a tree?
"Zones" refer to climate regions. As climate is the least controllable
factor affecting plants, it is important criteria in plant selection.
A plant's tolerance of potential temperatures is necessary for
its long-term survival.
There are two different zone maps. The Hardiness Zone Map, developed
by the United States Department of Agriculture, divides the
U.S. into regions by average cold temperature. Roseville falls
into Zone 9 on this map.
Sunset Books uses a zoning system appropriate for the diverse
geography of the West. This system considers such factors as
elevation, latitude, temperature, moisture, and terrain. Under
the Sunset zoning, Roseville is in Zone 8 or 9.
Both Zones 8 and 9 have the following climatic conditions: high
summer temperature, long growing season, potential low temperature
to freezing, and some northern cold wind and fog in winter.
Zone 8 tends to be lower in elevation. This difference may cause
cold air to be sucked down and thus lower the temperature. The
best bet is to find plants that work in either zone.
A species inappropriate for a specific climate may not be immediately
effected. Weather conditions are not constant year to year and
the plant may encounter the extremes only occasionally. Do not
get too attached to these plants, an extreme climate change
may be their demise.
Even plants appropriate for a zone may be caught by surprise
by unusually early weather, especially a frost that comes on
fast without precipitation. In particular the following are
vulnerable to cold damage: new plants that have not had time
to hardened off, plants in low spots where temperatures are
colder, container plants, and plants that received a late nitrogen
boost and have more tender growth than normal.
Also, cold damage dehydrates plants. Any plant with dry roots
is in danger.
To avoid cold damage, plant the right plants for the site and
keep the plants adequately irrigated. A series of dry days may
mean it is time to water, even though it is winter. Using mulch
helps reduce moisture evaporation and insulates the soil.
If a plant may be in danger, try trapping in heat from the ground
to warm the plant by covering it overnight. Make sure the cover
touches the ground and do not use plastic.
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How do I select a tree that will survive in Roseville?
Many problems that plague urban trees occur on trees weakened from growing in an improper environment. Careful
attention to selection, placement, and care could prevent many potential problems. There are many things to
consider when selecting and planting in your yard:
- Choose species or varieties adapted to the soil, climate, and water limitations of your location.
Research will pay off. Read the tree tag and ask questions.
- Select healthy, smaller trees that will handle transplanting. Avoid trees that have been topped or
that lack a dominant leader.
- Look for roots that are not circling and for a root mass that is in proportion with the aboveground
tree parts.
- Place your tree in a space where its roots and branches will fit at maturity.
- Pay close attention to planting and staking techniques specific to this area.
- Maintain a tree care regime that includes watering, fertilizing, and pruning.
If plants are well adapted to local conditions, receive proper care, and are relatively free of stresses, they are typically more tolerant of diseases and pests. Plants stressed out are more likely to be unhealthy.
Too often our attention focuses on the problems that develop rather than how they originate. When we want to
stay healthy, we are careful to take care of our own bodies. We eat and sleep well, drink plenty of fluids,
exercise, etc., whatever it takes. We know that when our health falters, we become less immune to illnesses.
The same theory applies to our trees. Ernest H. Wilson, a plant explorer and gardener, wrote: "A robust,
healthy plant, even as a robust healthy human, rarely needs the care of a doctor" (1926).
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How do I select the "right" tree for my yard?
When selecting a tree, there are many factors to consider. Why is the tree being planted? Will the tree be
adaptable to the climate and soil conditions? Is the tree resilient? How much will the tree grow? Ideally,
every tree should be planted in accord with some overall landscape scheme that considers the effect to be achieved,
the size of the plant at maturity, the tree’s vitality, and how will be maintained. Tree species are like
individuals, each has it's own characteristics. It is best to select a tree with characteristics you enjoy.
Important characteristics to consider are tree form or shape, size, growth rate, longevity, resistance to pests
and diseases, geographic tolerance, and the ornamental features of foliage, bark, flowers, and fruit. Aesthetics
and function should also be integrated into the selection process. Tree purposes include shade, aesthetics,
windbreaks, or screens. If you desperately need shade, you should select a tree that grows quickly and is tall
and wide enough to provide the shade needed. If you are looking for a screen, an evergreen may be better for year
round results. As important to consider when selecting a tree for your yard are the yard size and the tree size.
Think about the potential tree height, the canopy width and trunk expansion. Also, consider the root system
underground. Mature trees should not be constricted by buildings, sidewalks, overhead or underground
utility lines, or competing trees. Selecting the right tree for the right place not only assures your satisfaction,
it also reduces maintenance concerns and costs.
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