Best Trees to Plant in Washington

To a tree lover, Washington is paradise. Our mountains and valleys are literally covered in a variety of different trees. Homeowners like to bring a part of nature to their yard by planting trees. Trees don’t just add aesthetic value to your property, but they also provide fresh air, cooling shade, and homes for birds. Here is a list of the most popular types of trees to plant in Washington yards.

Douglas Fir

Douglas fir trees are graceful and noble trees that are beloved by tree enthusiasts and homeowners. The douglas fir is one of the country’s most important lumber species, and it makes up half of all Christmas trees. It is also popular to plant in yards and parks as windscreens or privacy fences. The douglas fir grows very fast and can be grown in full sun or partial shade. It can grow to be 40 to 70 feet tall and up to 20 feet wide and live for generations.

Japanese Red Pine

The Japanese Red Pine is a mammoth of a tree that can tower over 100 feet tall when fully mature. These trees grow very symmetrically, making them an ideal tree to add a bit of interest to your yard. After it’s initial boost of growth, it will slow down, so you don’t have to worry about it getting too big. Japanese Red Pines require little watering once it’s established and prefers to grow in full sun. The tree requires a bit of maintenance when it drops its cones every two years, but homeowners agree it is worth it.

Weeping Willow

Planted in the right spot, the weeping willow will take off. The weeping willow is one of the most majestic and soothing trees to look at. A gentle breeze in the summer creates movement and interest you won’t get in any other tree. Weeping willows grow large and wide, spreading over 40 feet and providing vast swaths of shade. Because of its drooping, umbrella-like form, it can provide shade for much longer than any other tree. Before planting a weeping willow, be sure to give it enough room to spread out. Its shallow roots can sometimes breach the surface and also crack foundations. 

Empress Tree

Empress trees are native to central China and hold the record for the fastest growing hardwood tree in the world. If you are looking for a tree that grows to 50 feet within the first decade, then you have found your tree. As for shade, the empress tree provides plenty with enormous leaves that are two to three feet in size. If you have space, the empress tree will truly impress.

Quaking Aspen

The quaking aspen is a tree that is a native to cold climates and grows exceptionally well in Eastern Washington. These magnificent trees can soar to 70 feet in height and spread over 40 feet. It provides shade and also attracts wildlife such as elk, grouse, and birds like warblers, chickadees, and nuthatches. As these trees get older, their bark turns a greyish-white tone that pops out against winter landscapes. The tree receives its “quaking” name from its golden leaves shimmer in the autumn breeze. 

Protect Your Trees With Tree Care From Colonial

At Colonial, we know how valuable trees are to your landscapes. Our tree and shrub care services include insect control and fertilization to keep your trees healthy, safe, and looking their best year-round.

To get started and beat the rush, call us today at (509) 966-1655 in Yakima or (509) 371-1655 for the tri-cities area. You can also request a free estimate here. Keep track of our monthly blog for the latest and greatest tips on irrigation, lawn care, tree care, pest control, and more. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter if you’d like to hear about our latest offerings and news.