Planting a new tree is one of the best investments you can make in your home — it adds beauty, shade, and value for decades to come.
But not every tree fits every property. The right choice depends on your space, soil, sunlight, and long-term goals.
Choosing wisely today helps you avoid costly pruning, root damage, or removals later.
1. Start with the Purpose
Before visiting a nursery or calling an arborist, ask yourself what you want the tree to do.
Common goals include:
- Adding shade for patios or driveways
- Increasing privacy or blocking wind
- Enhancing curb appeal or landscaping
- Supporting pollinators and wildlife
- Producing flowers, fruit, or fall color
Different goals call for different species. For example:
- Shade trees: Red Maple, Bur Oak, Honey Locust
- Privacy screens: White Cedar, Spruce, Hemlock
- Ornamental: Crabapple, Serviceberry, Japanese Lilac
2. Consider Available Space
One of the most common mistakes is planting a tree that grows too large for its space.
Always think about the tree’s mature size, not how it looks in the first few years.
| Yard Type | Recommended Tree Size | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Small urban yard | Up to 7 m tall | Serviceberry, Japanese Lilac, Amur Maple |
| Medium suburban yard | 8–15 m tall | Sugar Maple, Linden, White Birch |
| Large rural property | Over 15 m tall | Red Oak, Norway Spruce, Silver Maple |
Also check for overhead power lines and underground utilities before planting.
Planting too close to buildings or driveways can cause root conflicts down the line.
3. Check Sunlight and Soil Conditions
Trees have very specific preferences when it comes to sun exposure and soil moisture.
A tree suited for full sun may struggle in shade, while one that loves wet soil may fail in sandy ground.
Quick guide:
| Condition | Best Tree Types |
|---|---|
| Full sun & dry soil | Honey Locust, Bur Oak, White Pine |
| Partial shade | Red Maple, American Elm, Serviceberry |
| Moist or low-lying areas | Willow, Silver Maple, Black Ash |
| Clay soil | Freeman Maple, Linden, Ginkgo |
| Sandy soil | Scots Pine, Spruce, Tamarack |
If you’re unsure about your soil type, an arborist can take a simple test before planting.
4. Think Long-Term — Roots and Maintenance
Roots can travel two to three times farther than the tree’s canopy.
Planting too close to foundations, septic systems, or paved surfaces can lead to damage as the tree matures.
To reduce future maintenance, choose species known for:
- Strong wood and branch structure
- Slow to moderate growth rate
- Low litter (fewer seed pods or fruit)
Low-maintenance favorites for Ottawa:
- Red Maple
- Kentucky Coffeetree
- White Spruce
- Linden
Avoid species known for weak wood or invasive roots, like Poplar, Silver Maple, and Willow — they often require frequent pruning or early removal.
5. Choose Native or Climate-Adapted Species
Native trees are naturally suited to Ottawa’s climate, soils, and wildlife.
They resist local pests and diseases better than exotic species and need less water or fertilizer once established.
Popular native choices for Eastern Ontario:
- Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum)
- White Pine (Pinus strobus)
- Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana)
- Red Oak (Quercus rubra)
Planting native trees also supports local birds, bees, and pollinators, keeping your landscape healthy and diverse.
6. Plan for Seasonal Interest
A well-chosen tree adds beauty all year long — not just in summer.
When designing your landscape, combine species that offer something unique in each season:
| Season | Example Tree | Why It Stands Out |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Serviceberry | White blossoms and early berries |
| Summer | Red Maple | Broad shade canopy |
| Fall | Sugar Maple | Bright red-orange foliage |
| Winter | White Birch | Striking bark and form |
Mixing evergreen and deciduous trees creates balance and color throughout the year.
7. Work with a Certified Arborist
Choosing the right tree is only the first step — planting it correctly is just as important.
Certified arborists know how to:
- Match species to your soil and microclimate
- Plant at the correct depth and spacing
- Ensure proper mulching and watering
- Avoid root girdling and transplant shock
At Arboris, we help homeowners across Ottawa and Eastern Ontario choose and plant trees that thrive for decades — not just survive the first few years.
Ready to Plant the Perfect Tree?
Whether you’re adding shade, privacy, or beauty to your property, the right tree makes all the difference.
Our ISA Certified Arborists can help you select, plant, and care for trees that fit your space, your soil, and your vision.
Plant smart today — and enjoy the benefits for generations to come.