The amount of sunlight available will affect tree selection. Most woody plants require full sunlight for proper growth and flowering. Some do well in light shade, but few tree species perform well in dense shade. Exposure to wind is also a consideration. Special maintenance, such as staking or more frequent watering, may be needed to establish young trees on windy sites.
People account for the top five reasons for tree death.
Soil compaction, under watering, over watering, vandalism, and the number one cause, planting the wrong tree, accounts for more tree deaths than all insect and disease related tree deaths combined. This can injure or kill the tree. 12 inches deep in the areas you are considering planting trees. Fill the holes with water and time how long it takes the water to drain away. If it takes more than 6 hours, you may have a drainage problem.