What Types of Trees are Best Suited for My Climate & Soil

What Types of Trees are Best Suited for My Climate & Soil?

Planting your landscape in Minnesota can prove challenging due to the state’s harsh climate, with hot summers and very cold winters. Most of the Twin Cities metro area falls into Hardiness Zone 4b, meaning planted trees must be able to survive in temperatures as low as -25ºF. The soil conditions of your area may also have an impact on what species of trees will thrive.

Generally speaking, Minnesota-native trees will perform the best in our climate and soil conditions. Here are some great trees that you may be able to plant in your landscape:

• Red Maples – Minnesota natives, red maples are named for their beautiful fall foliage. These trees thrive in the local climate and prefer slightly acidic, moist soils.
• Bur Oaks – The most common native oak trees in Minnesota, bur oaks are incredibly sturdy and drought-tolerant trees. Another benefit of these trees is that they can grow well in all soils.
• American Basswoods – Also known as “lindens,” these trees offer good shade and beautiful fragrant flowers. American basswoods prefer moist, well-drained soils but can tolerate a range of soil conditions.
• White Pines – These fast-growing natives are among the most common evergreen trees in Minnesota. White pines thrive in sandy soil with good drainage but can tolerate clay.
• Norway Spruces – Though European natives, Norway spruces do well in Minnesota’s climate and are considered excellent windbreaks due to their dense foliage. These trees are adaptable to various soil conditions.
• Eastern Redbuds – With pink flowers that bloom early in spring and lovely heart-shaped leaves, it’s not hard to see why eastern redbuds are so popular in landscaping design. These trees can handle the local climate and do best when planted in well-drained soil.

Would you like advice about trees that would be a great addition to your landscape? Contact Ground One today if you’d like to learn more about our landscaping services in the greater Twin Cities area!