Where to Buy? Trees are available from many sources. While mail-order or catalog sources may seem convenient, ordering from them can be risky since you can't see the product, and trees sent by mail are often small in size. A nursery or your local home-and-garden center are the best places to start looking since you can see what you're buying and a larger variety will be available. An important bonus: professionals will be on the premises to answer any questions you may have.
What to Look For:
Before purchasing your tree, examine the leaves, limbs and bark for insect or disease problems such as cracks or splits. The tree's root ball should have some moisture, and the leaves shouldn't be drooping or yellowing. Look at the tree's form and shape overall; branches should emerge from the trunk at angles greater than 45 degrees. Pruning may help sometimes, but the shape of the tree will probably stay the same. Ask the staff if the tree you're looking at has any known problems or undesirable traits, and be sure to ask about improved varieties of trees that have been specially developed to have fewer problems than their previous counterparts. These trees may cost a little more, but they're worth it!
Deciduous Trees:
Deciduous trees drop their leaves in the fall and grow new ones in the spring. They offer shade and ornamental, colorful foliage in the fall, then go dormant in the winter.
Counting Cost:
The type of tree, its growth rate, availability and size all affect its price. Most popular landscape trees range from $50 to $250. Slow-growing or rare trees often exceed this range. Often, you can plant your own tree, but if it's large, you may be better off having a nursery install it. The cost of this service may be high, but a warranty usually comes with the installation.
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