Native Tree Planting with Abundant Design
A Serviceberry breaks up the edge of this suburban home and is brilliant in Autumn.
The Power of Native Tree Planting
When it comes to boosting your home’s resale value, few investments offer the same return as professional landscaping. A well-designed yard can improve curb appeal, create functional outdoor spaces, and set your property apart in a competitive market. But how do you make the most of your landscaping dollars? Incorporating native trees into your design is a great option.
Why Native Trees Are a Smart Investment for Resale
Native trees are species that naturally occur in our region, making them an ideal choice for landscaping. Not only are they adapted to the local climate, requiring less maintenance and resources, but also a selling point for environmentally conscious buyers.
Here are a few reasons why native tree planting can boost your home's appeal:
- Low Maintenance: Unlike exotic species, native trees are well-suited to local soil and weather conditions, reducing the need for irrigation, fertilizers, and pesticides.
- Eco-Friendly: Native trees support local ecosystems, providing food and shelter for birds, pollinators, and other wildlife. This aligns with growing consumer interest in sustainable living.
- Visual Appeal: Mature trees enhance a property’s aesthetics - offering shade, privacy, and a sense of permanence.
- Higher Property Value: Studies show that properties with mature trees can sell for up to 15% more than similar homes without them.
Top Midwest Native Trees to Consider
The best native trees for your landscaping project will depend on your region. For example:
- Oaks – Large, statuesque shade trees that support immense insect biodiversity that provides food for birds and more, making it an important keystone species for our region
- Sugar Maples – Their spectacular fall colors - blazing red, yellow & burnt orange – make them a popular landscape tree, and the sweet sap is often collected to make maple syrup
- Serviceberries – Popular shorter trees or shrubs with edible berries and great fall color
Consult with a local landscaping professional, like Abundant Design, or an arborist to determine the ideal species for your property.
How to Incorporate Native Trees into Your Landscape Design
Strategic placement is key when planting native trees. Here are some tips:
- Curb Appeal: Place trees in the front yard or along a driveway to frame your home and create a welcoming entrance.
- Shade and Energy Savings: Plant deciduous trees on the south and west sides of your home to reduce cooling costs in the summer. Use evergreens on the north and west to block harsh winter winds, reducing your heating bill.
- Outdoor Living Areas: Trees can define spaces, such as patios, decks, or play areas, while providing shade, privacy and a noise buffer if you are in a high traffic area.
Partner with a Professional for Maximum Impact
While planting a tree may seem simple, achieving a cohesive and visually appealing landscape often requires expert guidance. A professional landscaping service can help you select the right trees, ensure proper planting techniques, and design a layout that maximizes both beauty and resale value.
If you do decide to do it yourself, always call to get your underground utility lines marked. In Iowa call 811 or visit IowaOneCall.com. It’s for your own safety; the protection of utility infrastructure and it’s the law.
A Swamp White Oak tree planted South of Grand.
The Long-Term Benefits of Native Tree Planting
Investing in native trees is more than just a way to sell your home faster and at a higher price. It’s a contribution to the environment and a gift to future homeowners. Native trees improve air quality, reduce stormwater runoff, and enhance the overall health of your community.
By focusing on native tree planting as part of your landscaping for resale purposes, you’re not just increasing your property’s market value—you’re leaving a legacy of sustainability and natural beauty.
If you're looking to plant trees soon, contact Abundant Design to learn more.