Are you looking to bring some visual interest, shade and color to your Upstate New York landscape this spring? Planting the trees can make a big difference in the overall look of your outdoor space. By selecting trees that are native to the area, you’ll have peace of mind knowing they will thrive over time. Below we explore nine of our favorite tree varieties that not only suit the climate but also help enhance the beauty of any Upstate New York landscape.
1. Red Oak
A majestic and stately tree, the Red Oak is a popular choice for those looking to add shade and texture to their outdoor space. Its deep green leaves turn a beautiful golden bronze in the fall. It’s also one of the fastest-growing trees in the country, reaching heights of up to 90 feet in some cases.
2. Sugar Maple
The Sugar Maple is an iconic symbol for Upstate New York, and its vibrant red foliage makes it one of the most beloved trees in the region. This tree thrives in clay soil that is slightly acidic but can tolerate most soils as long as they are well drained. It’s known for its superior tolerance against pollution and acid rain, making it a great choice for those in urban areas.
3. White Pine
The White Pine is an evergreen tree that stands tall and makes a statement in any landscape. It grows quickly, reaching heights of up to 70 feet, and its long needles create dense foliage that help keep your yard cool during the hot summer months. This shade-tolerant tree can also withstand strong winds, making it a great pick for locations with gusty weather conditions.
4. Redbud
The redbud tree adds vibrant purple or pink blooms to any landscape, providing beautiful color and texture during the spring season. It’s an ideal choice for small yards because it only reaches about 30 feet at maturity — perfect for creating a cozy, intimate space.
5. Hawthorn
The hawthorn tree is a great choice if you’re looking to add beauty and privacy to your outdoor space. Its white blooms add color in the spring, while its dark green leaves create a lush canopy of shade during the summer months. It can reach heights of up to 30 feet and grows well in partial or full sun exposure.
6. American Beech
The American beech is a great tree for those looking to add a timeless and classic look to their Upstate New York landscape. It has smooth, gray bark and thick foliage that makes it a great choice for providing shade. This slow-growing tree is low maintenance and will provide you with years of natural beauty.
7. Flowering Dogwood
The flowering dogwood is an excellent choice for creating a beautiful landscape in Upstate New York. Its white blooms appear in the early spring, while its green foliage turns vibrant red or pink in fall. This small tree grows to about 25 feet at maturity and prefers well-drained soils that are slightly acidic.
8. White Ash
The white ash is a popular choice for Upstate New York landscapes due to its fast-growing nature and tolerance against urban conditions. Its dark green leaves turn yellow, orange and red in the fall, creating a stunning display of natural color. It can reach heights of up to 70 feet and is also tolerant of most soil types as long as they are well-drained.
9. American Sycamore
The American sycamore is a great choice for anyone looking to add height and visual interest to their landscape. Its deep green leaves turn yellow in the fall, and its bark exfoliates over time, revealing shades of white, gray and tan. It can reach heights of up to 100 feet, making it an ideal choice for larger yards.
By choosing some of these trees that are native to Upstate New York, you’ll be sure to have a beautiful outdoor space that will last for years to come. If you’re located in the Upper Hudson Valley and are looking for a top-rated contractor to plant trees, design your landscape and outdoor living area, contact the pros at Farrand’s Landscape.
