Some species provide beautiful displays of color for short periods in the spring or fall. Other species may have foliage that is reddish or variegated and can add color in your landscaping year round. Trees bearing fruits or nuts can provide an excellent source of food for many species of wildlife. Certain insects and diseases can be serious problems on some desirable species in some regions. Depending on the pest, control of the problem may be difficult and the pest may significantly reduce the attractiveness, if not the life expectancy, of the plant.
Some species are over-planted.
Increasing the natural diversity will provide habitat for wildlife and help limit the opportunity for a single pest to destroy all plantings. This lovely tree was widely planted throughout the United States. With the introduction of Dutch elm disease, thousands of communities lost all their street trees in only a few years. Evergreen trees will provide cover and shade year round. They may also be more effective as a barrier for wind and noise.