What Trees Can Be Planted by Curb

Planting trees by curb can bring many benefits to both the environment and the community. They can improve air quality, reduce urban heat island effect, and increase property values. However, not all trees are suitable for planting by curb due to space constraints and infrastructure compatibility. In this article, we will discuss the best trees to plant by curb.

Small Trees

Small trees are ideal for planting by curb where space is limited. They can provide a range of blooms, fall color, and textures without interfering with pedestrian traffic or utilities. Some of the best small trees for curb planting are:

Crabapple (Malus spp.) - Spring blooming with a range of colors, fall foliage and fruits attractive to birds.

Serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.) - Early spring blooming with white flowers, colorful fall foliage, and edible fruits.

Dogwood (Cornus spp.) - Spring blooming with showy bracts, white, pink or red color, and colorful fall foliage.

Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum) - Small and slow-growing tree with attractive leaves in various colors and shapes.

Redbud (Cercis canadensis) - Early spring blooming with pink or purple flowers on bare branches, heart-shaped leaves and fall color.

Medium Trees

Medium trees are suitable for planting by curb where there is enough space to accommodate their mature size. They can provide shade, privacy, and aesthetic value to the streetscape. Some of the best medium trees for curb planting are:

Maples (Acer spp.) - Popular for their fall color, samara fruits and leaf shapes, they come in various sizes and shapes.

Oaks (Quercus spp.) - Slow-growing and long-lived trees that provide shade, wildlife habitat and fall color.

Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua) - Provides attractive star-shaped leaves in fall color, interesting fruit capsules, and corky bark.

Zelkova (Zelkova serrata) - A deciduous shade tree with an upright form, a smooth gray bark, and yellow fall color.

Crabapple (Malus spp.) - Dwarf and mid-sized cultivars with persistent fruits, spring blooms, and fall color.

Large Trees

Large trees are suitable for planting by curb where there is ample space to accommodate their mature size and root system. They can provide a focal point, landmark, and environmental benefits such as carbon sequestration and stormwater management. Some of the best large trees for curb planting are:

American Elm (Ulmus americana) - An iconic and fast-growing tree with an arching form, rough bark, and yellow fall color.

London Plane Tree (Platanus x acerifolia) - A hybrid between the sycamore and oriental plane, it has a striking bark, shade tolerance, and air pollution tolerance.

Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis) - Drought tolerant, insect and disease resistant, and fall color.

Red Oak (Quercus rubra) - A fast-growing and handsome tree with red fall color, acorn fruits, and wildlife habitat.

White Pine (Pinus strobus) - A coniferous tree with soft needles, tall and straight form, and evergreen foliage for privacy.

Care and Maintenance

Planting a tree by curb requires careful consideration of the site conditions, tree species, and planting techniques. One must ensure that the tree has adequate soil volume, water, and light to thrive. The tree should not be planted too close to the sidewalk or utilities to avoid damage. Regular pruning, mulching, and fertilization can promote tree health and longevity.

Moreover, one should be aware of potential hazards such as falling branches, root damage, and insect infestation. The tree should be inspected by a certified arborist regularly to detect any signs of decline or risk. Emergency tree care such as storm damage, disease treatment or removal should be performed by trained professionals to ensure safety and quality.

Conclusion

Choosing the right tree to plant by curb can benefit the community and the environment for generations. By selecting appropriate species and following proper care and maintenance, one can enjoy the beauty, shade, and value of a healthy curb tree. Consult with a local nursery or arborist to select the best tree for your site conditions and personal preferences. The future of our cities depends on our tree planting decisions today.