4 Tips for Choosing the Right Tree for Your Yard

Abundant Tree Care Services • February 18, 2025
A large tree with lots of leaves is in front of a building.

Planting a tree is an investment that can provide shade, beauty, and even increase your property value. However, selecting the right tree for your yard requires careful consideration. From mature size to long-term maintenance, there are many factors to think about. At Abundant Tree Care Services, we can help you choose the ideal trees for your property. Then, we can properly plant them. Here are four tips for choosing the right tree for your yard.


Consider Your Growing Conditions

Consider your yard’s soil type and drainage. Some trees prefer well-draining soil, while others can tolerate occasional flooding. Sunlight exposure is another key factor—if your yard is mostly shaded, select a tree that thrives in low-light conditions. Matching your tree to your climate and growing conditions will give it the best chance for long-term success.


Think About Size and Growth Rate

Before selecting a tree, consider how big it will get at full maturity. A tree that seems small when planted may grow to tower over your house or interfere with power lines in just a few years. Fast-growing trees can provide quick shade but may have weaker wood that is prone to breaking in storms. Slower-growing trees may take longer to mature but often develop stronger structures and longer lifespans. Make sure to check both the height and width of a tree at maturity so it fits well within your yard’s space constraints.


Choose a Tree with the Right Function

Different trees serve different purposes in a yard. If you want shade to cool your home during the summer, a deciduous tree that loses its leaves in winter will allow sunlight to reach your home during colder months. If privacy is your goal, evergreen trees provide year-round screening from neighbors or roadways. Flowering trees add seasonal beauty, while fruit-bearing trees can provide fresh produce. Understanding the primary function you want from your tree will help you make the right choice.


Consider Maintenance and Upkeep

Some trees require more maintenance than others, so it’s important to choose one that fits your willingness to care for it. Certain species drop large amounts of leaves or seed pods, requiring frequent cleanup. Others may be prone to disease or pests, leading to additional maintenance needs. Selecting a tree with manageable maintenance requirements will save you time and effort in the long run.


Tree Planting Services in De Soto, IL

For arborist services in De Soto, Carbondale, and Southern Illinois, contact Abundant Tree Care Services at 618-227-2881. Feel free to give us a call to ask for an estimate!

Why is it best to have a professional arborist prune my trees?

By Abundant Tree Care Services • July 19, 2025
Tree pruning is a vital part of maintaining a healthy and attractive landscape. While it may be tempting to grab some tools and try to do it yourself, improper pruning can do more harm than good. That’s where a professional arborist comes in. Arborists are trained and certified in the care of trees and understand the best practices for pruning to promote both safety and tree health. At Abundant Tree Care Services, our local arborists provide expert tree pruning in the greater De Soto, IL area. Here are four benefits of hiring a professional arborist for pruning services. Improved Tree Health One of the most important reasons to prune a tree is to remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches. A professional arborist can identify these problem areas and make precise cuts that prevent decay from spreading to healthy parts of the tree. Pruning also increases air circulation and light penetration, which helps reduce the risk of disease and supports vigorous growth. A properly pruned tree is healthier and better equipped to withstand pests, storms, and other stressors. Enhanced Safety Around Your Property Overgrown or unstable branches can pose serious risks to your home, vehicles, or people on your property. Weak limbs may break off during storms or high winds, causing damage or injury. A professional arborist knows how to spot potential hazards and will remove risky branches before they become a problem. By keeping trees structurally sound and balanced, you help create a safer outdoor environment for your family and visitors. Better Tree Shape and Appearance Pruning isn’t just about removing problem branches—it’s also about shaping the tree for a more attractive and balanced appearance. Arborists are skilled in techniques that enhance the natural form of each species, improving curb appeal and adding beauty to your landscape. Proper shaping also prevents trees from becoming overgrown and maintains symmetry that contributes to a well-maintained yard. Protection for Nearby Structures and Utilities Trees that grow too close to roofs, fences, or power lines can cause problems if not properly managed. Branches rubbing against buildings can lead to structural damage, and limbs near power lines can be dangerous. An arborist can safely trim trees in tight spaces without harming surrounding property. Their expertise ensures that your trees grow in a way that complements your home rather than threatens it. Professional Tree Pruning in De Soto, IL For expert arborist services in De Soto , Carbondale, and Southern Illinois, contact Abundant Tree Care Services at  618-227-2881  . Feel free to give us a call to request an estimate!

4 Signs that a Tree Is Threatening Your Home & You Should Call the Arborist

By Abundant Tree Care Services • June 19, 2025
When big trees are compromised, they can pose serious threats to your safety and your home’s structure. While some warning signs are obvious, others may be subtle until it’s too late. Being able to recognize the indications of a hazardous tree can help you take preventive action before damage occurs. At Abundant Tree Care Services , our local arborists can identify and safely remove hazardous trees. Here are four signs that a tree may be creating a safety risk for your home. Leaning Toward Structures A tree that leans dramatically toward your house, garage, or other structure may be unstable. While not all leaning trees are dangerous, a sudden change in posture or a lean that continues to worsen can indicate root failure or structural weakness. If a tree is leaning more than usual following a storm or heavy rain, it's especially important to have it evaluated by an arborist right away. Cracks in the Trunk or Major Limbs Visible cracks in a tree’s trunk or large branches may indicate that it is splitting internally. These structural defects can lead to sudden failure, especially during strong winds. Cracks can also provide a pathway for pests and rot to weaken the tree further. Even if the cracks seem minor, they could signal serious underlying issues that compromise the tree’s stability. Dead or Hanging Branches Large dead limbs are a common safety concern, especially when located over rooftops, driveways, or walkways. Dead branches are brittle and prone to falling without warning, posing a risk to people and property below. If you notice multiple dead or hanging limbs, the tree may be under stress or declining in health, which can increase the risk of branch failure. Roots Uplifting or Exposed Roots play a vital role in anchoring a tree securely to the ground. If you observe roots lifting out of the soil or find that the soil around the base is disturbed, it could mean the tree is shifting. Exposed or damaged roots are often a result of erosion or construction, and can lead to the tree becoming unstable and toppling in high winds. Tree Removal in De Soto, IL For expert arborist services in De Soto , Carbondale, and Southern Illinois, contact Abundant Tree Care Services at  618-227-2881  . Feel free to give us a call to request an estimate !