Resources and Links

The success of any tree planting project starts by selecting species that are adaptable to the growing conditions of a particular site. Examples of conditions to consider include soil drainage, available sunlight, aspect (direction the site faces), available space, existing trees and plants, and above and underground utilities.

• Tree Owner's Manual (USDA)
• Rethinking Maple: Selecting Trees for your Yard
• Identification of Hardwood Trees in Iowa
• Identification of Conifer Trees in Iowa
• Guide for Selecting Trees
• Tree Detectives
• Landscaping for Energy Conservation
• Dutch Elm Disease and Disease Resistant Elms
• Interactive Tree Identification Tool (ISU Extension)
• What Tree is That? Interactive Tool (Arbor Day Foundation)
• Iowa Plant Hardiness Zone Map (USDA)

Shade trees provide many benefits, such as improved air quality, energy savings, increased wildlife diversity and habitat, noise reduction, higher property values, and natural beauty. However, if trees are planted improperly they can often become stressed or even die before they can start to provide such benefits.

• Planting and Maintaining a Healthy Tree
• Transplanting Trees and Shrubs
• 9 Things You Should Know About Trees (Arbor Day Foundation)
• Backyard Conservation Tree Planting

Utilizing proper care and maintenance techniques throughout the life of a tree can help maintain its health and vigor. A healthy plant is often better able to tolerate potential disease and insect problems. Maintenance activities should include mulching, watering, monitoring tree health, pruning, and in some cases staking and fertilizing.

Pruning, Maintenance and Care Resources

• Tree Owner's Manual (USDA)
• Using Mulches in Managed Landscapes
• Pruning Shade and Flowering Trees
• Prune Oaks in the Winter
• How to Prune Trees
• Pruning Ornamental Shrubs
• Powerlines and Trees
• Topping - Tree Care or Tree Abuse
• Managing Storm Damaged Trees
• How to Hire an Arborist
• Community Tree Planting and Care Guide