Summer months can bring many joys as we spend time outdoors in the sunshine. One thing that we can all appreciate is the need for some solace from the sun, or shade after some time outdoors. Here in Visalia, we can have hot days where we need to enjoy some indoors and a/c, but when weather allows, we love to spend some time outside in our yards. That is why it’s important to have our superheroes, the shade trees, as part of our landscape. There are some great contenders to consider when selecting a shade tree. We would like to share them with you.

Trees provide physical perimeters for our yards with their trunks and their canopies create shady cool spots during the summer. It’s important to choose the right tree and right location for each tree. Did you know trees have another superpower up their trunks? They also increase ground water percolation. They do this by slowing down rainwater and deterring it from leaving the area. When they do this, they cool the ambient temperature and increase the stability of the soil.

Another bonus of having trees on your property is that they provide extra value. Property values are known to increase when there are mature trees within the landscape. How do you select the right tree for the space? It’s important that the tree is the correct height and diameter for the space. Trees will help set the tone for your landscape.

Would you like to know some classic shade trees that you can select from?

Red Leap Maple: If you love beautiful fall color, this is your gal. She grows up to 50 feet tall and 40 feet wide and has an upright vase shaped canopy. Her leaves are red-orange in the fall. She’s also easy to care for with her non-invasive roots.

Chinese Elm: This go to guy is a favorite if you’re looking for a fast-growing shade tree. He quickly matures to 40 feet tall and wide and is best dressed in thinned out branches. His silvery bark makes him look mature and he shows off yellow hued leaves.

Chinese Pistache: This hardy gal is disease resistant and matures to 30 to 35 feet tall with deep roots. She loves to show off her orange and red colors in the fall and presents you with berry-like fruit in the winter months.

Olive Trees: Veering away from classic tree style the olive tree can add some visual appeal and reinforce the architecture or interior design of your home. She matures 25 to 30 feet tall, and her silvery leaves and aged bark look great in the twilight.

Palo Verde Tree: This popularity contest winner is a local favorite and can easily be spotted by her yellow-green bark and lacy foliage. She loves to show off her yellow trumpet flowers during the summer months. The Palo Verde is petite at just under 25 feet tall and wide and looks great in planters or walkways. If you’re looking to compliment your architecture, her delicate patterns will enhance southwestern and contemporary landscapes.

These are just a few of the shade tree contenders. Come on down to the nursery and we’ll help you select the perfect tree for your landscape.