Choosing the right tree

Choosing the right tree is the first step in ensuring that your efforts and money are not wasted.

Even if you know very little about how our native trees and forests grow it is probably a good bet that you are aware that different species of trees are found on different sites. Like all other types of plants, trees have specific growing requirements. As a result, each site has its own capability, and in the same way, its own limitations for growing trees.

Choosing the right species for the site does not always guarantee success, but choosing the wrong species is sure to guarantee failure. So spend some time determining what your site characteristics are and if you are still unsure, consult a professional.

The following table provides the basic information to match species to site conditions, however for more in depth guidance please download Choosing the Right Tree: A Landowners Guide to Putting Down Roots.

A Guide to Matching Species to Soil

Soil Texture	Natural Drainage Well to Moderate	Natural Drainage Imperfect to Poor
SAND	White Pine Red Pine European Larch Norway Spruce Sugar Maple Red Oak White Cedar Poplar Black Locust	White Cedar Tamarack Black Spruce Silver Maple Red Maple Willow
LOAM	White Pine Red Pine White Spruce Black Spruce Norway Spruce European Larch White Cedar Sugar Maple Red Maple White Ash Green Ash Red Oak Black Cherry Beech Basswood Black Walnut Poplar Black Locust Butternut	White Cedar Tamarack Black Spruce Silver Maple Red Maple Willow
CLAY	White Pine Norway Spruce European Larch White Cedar White Ash Green Ash Beech Red Maple Black Walnut Black Locust Poplar	Tamarack Black Spruce Silver Maple Green Ash Willow

Gift Certificate

Greenhouse Plugs

Coniferous

Deciduous

Shrubs

Fruit Trees

Oversized Bareroot

Native Perennials

Gift Trees

Cuttings

Planting Supplies

The Forest Shop: Books

Choosing the right tree

Choosing the right tree

Sign up for our newsletter to receive special offers.