A Simple Guide Using Cal Poly’s Free Tree Selection Tool
By Robin Choate
Planting a tree is one of the best investments you can make in your landscape. The right tree can provide shade, reduce summer heat, attract birds and pollinators, improve air quality, and add beauty to your yard for generations.
But with so many trees available, how do you know which one is the right choice?
Fortunately, there’s a free online resource that can help.
The Urban Forest Ecosystems Institute (UFEI) at Cal Poly has developed an excellent Tree Selection Guide that allows homeowners to search for trees based on their growing conditions and landscaping goals.
Instead of wandering through a nursery hoping something catches your eye, you can narrow your choices before you ever leave home.
Start With Your Yard
Before opening the Tree Selection Guide, spend a few minutes looking at the space where you plan to plant.
Ask yourself a few simple questions:
- How much room does the tree have to grow?
- Will it be planted near a sidewalk, driveway, or the house?
- Is the location sunny or shady?
- Do you want year-round shade or winter sunshine?
- How much watering will the tree receive after it becomes established?
Knowing the answers will make choosing a tree much easier.
Why the West Side Matters
In East Contra Costa County, the hottest sun arrives in the afternoon from the west.
Planting a shade tree on the west side of your home can help block that afternoon sun, making your home more comfortable during the summer while helping reduce cooling costs.
Of course, every property is different, so take time to think about where shade will provide the greatest benefit.
How to Choose the Right Shade Tree Using the Tree Selection Guide
The Cal Poly Tree Selection Guide is easy to use.
Simply visit the website and begin narrowing your choices using filters such as:
- Mature height
- Mature width
- Evergreen or deciduous
- Water requirements
- Growth rate
- Sun exposure
- Climate suitability
As you select your preferences, the list becomes smaller until only trees matching your needs remain.
Click on any tree to learn more about its mature size, appearance, water needs, and other growing characteristics.
Compare Several Trees
Don’t feel like you need to choose the first tree you find.
Compare several possibilities.
Consider how large each tree will become, how much maintenance it requires, and how it will fit into your landscape twenty or thirty years from now—not just next summer.
A little planning today can prevent problems in the future.
Visit a Local Nursery
Once you’ve narrowed your choices, visit a reputable local nursery.
Seeing the trees in person and talking with knowledgeable staff can help confirm your decision.
Local nurseries are also familiar with the growing conditions in our area and can recommend varieties that perform well in East Contra Costa County.
Gardening Is About Planning
One of the joys of gardening is creating a landscape that grows more beautiful each year.
Choosing the right tree is a decision you’ll enjoy for decades, so it’s worth taking a little extra time to do your homework.
The best time to choose the right shade tree is before you visit the nursery. Spending a few minutes with the Cal Poly Selectree Guide can help you plant a tree you’ll enjoy for decades.
The Cal Poly Tree Selection Guide is an outstanding resource that makes the process simple and enjoyable.
Happy planting!
Resource
Cal Poly Urban Forest Ecosystems Institute – Tree Selection Guide