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!

Read the Recent Customer Reviews for Abundant Tree Care Services in De Soto, IL!

By Abundant Tree Care Services • May 18, 2025
At Abundant Tree Care Services, we’re proud members of the local small business community. We strive to earn our customers’ complete satisfaction by doing expert tree work at fair rates. Whether you need tree removal, stump grinding, or pruning, our local arborists will work diligently to complete the job to the highest standards. And we appreciate it when our customers offer feedback about their experiences with us. Here’s a look at some of our recent customer reviews. “Had a 15 ft cedar tree next to my house that started to lean/fall from weather and was a risk so I called these guys up & they arrived in about an hour & had it down in even less time. Pricing was good for the work done. If needed I'll definitely call these guys again.” — Brett R. “Abundant Tree Care Service was able to get to our needs quickly and did an excellent job. He ground out a large stump and smoothed the dirt, making the whole area look great. Highly recommend.” — Brenda G. “Abundant Tree Care recently did some tree work for me. They cut down a dead tree, cleaned up some damaged trees, and removed many branches from my yard. I would highly recommend them for any tree work you might need done. They were excellent!!” — Jo Ann W. “Very professional, quality work and all of the guys were extremely nice. I would definitely use Abundant Tree service again!! I highly recommend this business.” —Shellie D. “We have had a few other tree services out over the years and these guys are absolutely the most professional and still competitively priced. The cleanup after was impeccable, they were careful not to destroy our yard even with the ridiculous amount of rain we had (a difficult feat), and every guy on the crew was polite and professional. We had a complicated job with an 80+ ft pine leaning over a 2 story garage. It was obvious they took a lot of care to avoid any additional damage to the structure. I cannot recommend them enough.” — Shelby W. 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 ask for an estimate!

5 Indications that Your Tree Is a Safety Hazard

By Abundant Tree Care Services • April 16, 2025
Healthy trees provide beauty and environmental benefits, but when they become compromised, they can pose significant risks. A hazardous tree can cause property damage and serious injuries. At Abundant Tree Care Services, our local arborists can identify and safely remove dangerous trees. Here are five signs that your tree might be a safety hazard. Cracks or Splits in the Trunk Cracks and splits in the trunk can weaken a tree’s structural integrity, making it more likely to fall. Deep fissures or multiple cracks may indicate internal decay or previous storm damage. If a tree has a significant crack, it may be unstable and prone to collapse. The arborist can assess the extent of the damage and recommend the best course of action. Leaning with Exposed Roots A tree that is leaning significantly, particularly if it has recently changed position, is a major red flag. Leaning trees often have compromised root systems, especially if you notice exposed or damaged roots near the base. Soil erosion, storms, or root disease can contribute to instability. If your tree has started tilting and the roots appear disrupted, it may be at risk of toppling over. Dead/Dying Branches If you notice large branches that are dead or dying, your tree may be in trouble. Dead limbs can break off unexpectedly, especially during storms or high winds, creating a serious hazard for people, vehicles, and structures nearby. If your tree has a significant number of dead branches, it may be time for professional evaluation to determine if pruning or removal is necessary. Signs of Fungal Growth or Decay The presence of fungal growth at the base of a tree can indicate internal decay. Fungi feed on rotting wood, which means the tree’s internal structure may be compromised. Hollow or soft spots in the trunk can also suggest decay, reducing the tree’s ability to withstand storms and high winds. A tree with significant decay should be evaluated to determine whether it poses a risk. Nearby Structures Are at Risk Even if a tree appears healthy, its location can make it a hazard. Trees that are too close to buildings or power lines can create safety issues. Branches that extend over roofs or utility lines can break off and cause damage. If your tree is encroaching on a structure or utility line, professional trimming or removal may be necessary. 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 ask for an estimate!