Trees make our environment more livable. Some trees provide colorful or fragrant flowers. Others produce attractive fruits and lure birds and other wildlife. Leaves in summer vary in color of green and texture. In autumn, they may become brilliantly colored.
Trees also offer interest in patterns of branching, forms and bark colors and textures.
Winter hardiness and freedom from serious insect or disease problems are important. Select a tree that creates a minimum of litter of faded flowers, messy fruits or seed pods, leaves and twigs. The shallow root systems of some trees may create problems with nearby gardens, septic systems or pavements. Other trees may create so much shade that grass will not grow under them and pavement will dry off slowly after rains. Where de-icing salts or other pollutants may injure trees, select from among those trees that are tolerant.