How To Choose The Best Trees To Plant Along Your Fence Line
There are many benefits to adding trees to your property. They add extra privacy, shade, depth, greenery and can also become a shelter for birds and small animals.
Although there are many benefits to planting trees in your yard, what homeowners need to keep in mind is that trees can be ruthless in their growing process. They expand both in height and width, so it is important that you plan ahead when planting trees along your fence line.
First, let’s take a look at which trees are best suited for OKC!
TOP 10 BEST TREES TO PLANT IN OKC*
- Chinese Pistache
- Lacebark Elm
- Bald Cypress
- Crepe Myrtle
- Junipers
- Oklahoma RedBud
- Autumn Blaze Maple
- Nellie R Stevens Holly (Evergreen)
- Blue Ice Cypress (Evergreen)
- Shumard Oak
How To Plant Trees Along Your Fence Line
Now that you know what the best trees for the Oklahoma City area are, it’s time to get to planning!
Step 1.
Check Your Environment
Before planting your tree(s), you’ll want to make sure your tree will be set up for growth success. Ensure your soil is rich and is well-drained to prevent root rot and other types of tree fungus. You’ll also need plenty of sun exposure (unless you’re opting for a tree that loves the shade).
Step 2.
Check the Space
Your tree will need plenty of room to grow, this means making sure you plant your new tree(s) far enough away from your fence. It is recommended to dig a hole at least twice the size of the root ball so the root system can fit completely inside with room to spread.
For spacing, it depends on the size of your tree.
The Tree Center recommends the following allowances:
Small trees, such as flowering dogwoods, magnolia, or smaller conifers – allow 10 feet.
Medium-sized trees, such as fruit trees, birch trees, or larger Japanese maple – allow 20 feet
Large trees, like sugar maple, oaks, Gingko, or flowering pear – allow 30 to 50 feet
Large, aggressive trees like poplars, silver maple, or willows – allow 100 feet
Trees will engulf any material that is in their path of growth. If you are not careful with the placement of your tree and fence, you could end up with this:
Step 3.
Check Regularly
Set reminders to go out and look at the growth of your tree to ensure it is staying on track and won’t interfere with your fence line. It is also recommended that you prune your growing tree to maintain its desired shape.
TL;DR (too long; didn’t read) For all you skimmers out there:
Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball, check the spacing recommendations of your particular tree, plant & done!
Or, you can always give our office a call at 405-921-3426.
Our experts will be glad to go over a free estimate with you as well as assist you in your fence design and planning to ensure you get the best fence for your space.
*Top Ten Trees to Plant in OKC Source: