Choose the right tree for the right site

You want trees that grow well in the soil, moisture, and temperature of your neighborhood.

To get the best results, consider each tree individually against your situation and needs:

• Height. You do not want your tree bumping into anything when it is fully grown.
• Canopy spread. You need to be able to accommodate how wide the tree will grow.
• Deciduous or evergreen.  If you are considering a tree that loses it leaves, are you prepared for the cleanup and the barrenness?
• Form or shape. Do you want a columnar tree that will grow in less space or do you want a round and V-Shaped species which provides the most shade?
• Growth rate. How long will it take for your tree to reach maturity?  What is your hurry?  Slow-growing species typically live longer than fast-growing species.
• Soil, sun, and moisture requirements for each tree and what you can offer.
• Fruit. Not only are unclaimed droppings messy, but they will also attract rodents and could be a slip and fall on busy sidewalks.
• Hardiness zone.  What are the temperature extremes in which your tree can be expected to grow?

Consider trees for their function

• Beauty
• Fruit
• Windbreak
• Summer Shade
• Etcetera

Choose a healthy tree.  This is one that has a good number of roots in proportion to the tops. Check for signs of leaf injury from pests or diseases or trunk damage from mishandling.

Trees sold in large national chain stores.  Commonly, these have been grown in distant areas.  Possibly, they may not be acclimated to your area.  Due your due diligence.

Consider native trees versus exotics. A native tree is a tree that has not been introduced by man.  It occurs naturally.

• They are perfect for providing food and shelter for wildlife and for
• Manufacturing oxygen both for humans and animals.
• They are said to resist pests better and are
• Easier to maintain.
• They are better adapted so they are
• Less stressed by climate extremes.

Locally proven non-natives. To avoid the introduction of aggressive species that may become pests, you want to choose non-native trees with care. Locally proven non-natives can help accomplish the goals of natives such as reducing maintenance.

Suggested educational material

Books:

A Call for Revolution: A Vision for the Future
by the 14th Dalai Lama and Sofia Stril-Rever

An Appeal to the World: The Way to Peace in a Time of Division
by the 14th Dalai Lama

Beyond Religion: Ethics for a Whole World
by the 14th Dalai Lama

Business as an Instrument for Societal Change: In Conversation with the Dalai Lama
by Sander Tideman

Caring Economics: Conversations on Altruism and Compassion, Between Scientists, Economists, and the Dalai Lama
by Tania Singer and Matthieu Ricard

Ecology, Ethics, and Interdependence: The Dalai Lama in Conversation with Leading Thinkers on Climate Change
by John D. Dunne and Daniel Goleman

Our Only Home: A Climate Appeal to the World
by the 14th Dalai Lama and Franz Alt

The Universe in a Single Atom: The Convergence of Science and Spirituality
by the 14th Dalai Lama and Richard Gere

This Fragile Planet: His Holiness the Dalai Lama on Environment
by the 14th Dalai Lama and Michael Buckley

Video:

Ethics and the World Crisis: A Dialogue with the Dalai Lama
Watch here

His Holiness The XIV Dalai Lama: Ethics for a New Millennium
Watch here

Additional information & resources:

Maha Space:
https://www.facebook.com/MahaSpaceEcovillage

Clear Light YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHYS8YPtKHK0tkxBl1kp7ag

One Big Love Website & Blog:
https://one-big-love.com/

Science & Wisdom Live:
https://www.sciwizlive.com/

The Foundation for Developing Compassion and Wisdom:
https://www.compassionandwisdom.org/