Healthy, mature trees add curb appeal to every yard. In fact, they can even increase the value of your home by more than 10%! Whether you’re staring at a bare yard or you just want to add a few more foliage options to your backyard view, planting new trees is a great idea. But before you grab a shovel, consider which trees grow best in Georgia and how to plant them properly.

The Importance of Planting Native Trees

Did you know planting native trees in Georgia provides tons of benefits to your yard and the entire ecosystem around it? Native trees were designed to thrive in their local environment. This means they’ll remain healthy through changing seasons and mature into long-lasting trees. Even better, they require less maintenance than non-native trees! If you’re looking for trees that will stand the test of time for decades to come, choose native species.

Native trees also know their limits. While some non-native varieties tend to take over, becoming invasive to the wildlife and plants around them, native trees work in symbiosis with surrounding nature, providing benefits alongside other vegetation. Their flowers invite local pollinators, their shade helps to regulate temperatures, and their very existence purifies the air. Native trees are definitely worth having in your yard.

Popular Native Trees in Atlanta

If you’re ready to nurture some native trees on your property, you have plenty of options! Common tree species in the Atlanta area are plentiful, and a local arborist can help you decide which trees are best suited for your outdoor space. Some of the most plentiful (and beautiful) trees in Georgia include:

Dogwoods

Dogwood trees are famous throughout the southeastern United States for their spring blooms! When you drive through Atlanta in March and April, you’ll probably catch a glimpse of these flowers, and their native beauty can add eye-catching florals to your yard year after year.

Magnolias

The magnolia is a staple in the south due to its stunning white blooms and rich green leaves. The Southern Magnolia and its smaller relative, the Sweetbay Magnolia, are found all over the Atlanta area. Consider adding one to your yard for a dose of quintessential southern charm.

Maples

Maple trees have grown natively in Georgia for centuries, and their bright fall colors make them a popular choice in residential yards! The orange leaves on the Sugar Maple and the red and yellow hues of the Red Maple bring color to autumn days and provide shade in the summer heat.

Oaks

There are many oak varieties in Georgia, from the Southern Red Oak to the White Oak. These native trees thrive as they mature in your yard, providing shade, environmental benefits, and natural beauty to your landscape for decades.

Pines

If you’re looking to add some evergreen options to your yard, consider the Loblolly Pine and White Pine. They’re both common Georgia trees that bring rich greens to any landscape, and they help diversify your backyard ecology along with their deciduous neighbors.

Tulip Poplars

Poplar trees adorn any Georgia neighborhoods, and the Tulip Poplar variety has the added benefit of pretty spring blooms. If your yard is bright and sunny, this southern tree will thrive.

How to Properly Plant Trees in Your Yard

Once you’ve decided to add some trees to your yard, make sure you set your saplings up for success by following these steps. Knowing how to plant a tree can make all the difference.

Before You Plant

Check utility lines. Call your local utility companies to come to your home and mark any underground lines before you begin to dig.
Choose a tree – or a location. You can choose a location, then determine what type of tree will thrive there, or you can choose a tree and then select a location that suits its light and space needs.
Know your soil type. You may want to test your soil before selecting a tree to ensure that the ground is healthy and ready to help a new tree thrive.

As You Plant

Dig the right sized hole. In most cases, the hole for a new tree should be double or triple the width of the root ball and about the same height as the root ball itself.
Prepare the root ball. Some trees come wrapped in metal wiring or burlap. Remove this covering and untangle the roots to the best of your ability before sticking your new tree in the ground.
Backfill and mulch. After your tree is placed in the hole, backfill with the original soil you removed, compacting the earth to provide stability to your new tree.
Stake your tree if needed. While your tree’s roots grow into the soil, it may need a little help staying upright and growing straight. Stake your sapling if needed, making sure to provide three anchor points and loose ties that allow your tree to sway in the wind a bit.
Water often. Your first watering should be thorough, soaking the soil around the tree to help compact the soil. Continue to water your tree often throughout the first year according to the needs of the species.

Expert Help in Tree Planting

If you’re still not sure which trees to plant or how to plant them properly, give Northside Tree Professionals a call. Since 1968, we’ve been advising Atlanta homeowners about their vegetation, removing diseased, dead, and dangerous trees, trimming and pruning healthy ones, and so much more! We’re your one-stop shop for expert tree services in Georgia, and we’d love to help you determine your best next step. Get in touch with us today to learn how we can help.