Native tree planting has enormous benefits for people, animals, and the ecosystem at large. The benefits include ecological, economic, and social benefits. However, the benefits gotten from native trees exceed those from non-native trees by far. The two main categories of native trees include:
- Evergreen species
- Deciduous species
Evergreen native trees are always green throughout the four seasons while deciduous trees shed their mature and overgrown leaves during autumn. Common examples of native trees include the chokeberry, viburnum, serviceberry, and the ninebark.
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Advantages of native trees
Here’s a detailed discussion on the benefits that you will enjoy with having a native tree.
Environmental benefits
Did you know that a mature native tree can produce enough oxygen for up to four people? Native trees absorb air pollutants such as dust, carbon (IV) oxide, ozone, carbon (I) oxide, and sulfur (IV) oxide. This leaves the environment free from any pollutants caused by the excessive industrialization being experienced around the globe.
Another benefit is that trees contribute immensely towards the control of soil erosion and water retention in the soil. The excess water is absorbed by the tree and released in the form of moisture which causes a cooling effect to the surrounding environment.
Moreover, native trees do provide food and shelter to numerous animal and beneficial insect species. If you are a lover of animals, then you definitely want to grow some native trees in your backyard.
Economical benefits
During summer, native trees provide a serene environment around your home, thus lowering your cooling costs by up to 50%. On the other hand, evergreen native trees act as natural windbreakers, thus reducing your heating costs.
Do you know that you can also boost the value of your home by planting a native tree? Research has proven that homes with native trees can easily sell at a higher price, by almost 30%. Well, if this is not reason enough for you to plant some native trees in your compound, check the next benefit.
Social benefits
Native trees also provide social benefits in an environment. These benefits include providing enjoyment and aesthetics into your compound. With a good shade from the trees, you can easily have some fun games with your family even when the sun is scorching outside. As for aesthetics, research has proven that living in a beautiful environment greatly helps with the mental health of the inhabitants.
Reasons why native trees are better than non-native trees
You may be wondering, why should I go for a native tree while I can easily plant a non-native tree? Then read on.
Native trees are better in restoring the original ecosystem, thus bringing harmony and balance to the environment. Wild animals are more conversant with these trees and for those that migrate, it is easier for them to do so when they can trace native trees around them.
Another advantage of native trees is that they leaf out later in the season and will drop leaves earlier than their counterparts. This allows sunlight to penetrate the lower parts of the tree, thus allowing better growth and performance. Also, this helps the leaves to clean up much faster.
Native trees can grow faster and require little or no attention.
Furthermore, native trees are more resistant to common plant diseases which makes it easy to take care of them. Native trees that grow in areas with insects and other pests have their unique mechanism of warding off the destructive organisms. Due to their overall resilience and adaptability, they can easily fight any fungal infection that may occur on them. Most likely, you will spend less money and energy on fungicides and pesticides on native trees than non-native trees.
Lastly, native trees require less water and fertilizer compared to non-native trees, which makes it convenient for growers to tend to them even during dry seasons.
Which native tree species should you plant?
Numerous species of native trees are mostly found in North America, Europe. However, some parts of the world like Asia have other species of native trees. As a resident of the Midwest, there are several options when it comes to choosing a native tree to grow. We have trees like Balsam fir, White spruce, Jack pine, Red pine, Swamp privet, Ohio buckeye, Kentucky coffee tree, Boxelder, Black gum and Blue ash.
Wrapping up
Planting native trees is a habit that should be embraced by every person that would like to make the planet a better place. The trees are crucial for our wildlife. Most insects, birds, and mammals find it hard to survive without the food, shade, and shelter provided by the various species of native trees.
If you have more questions, please take a look at our tree planting service or give us a call.
