If you’re looking to add a touch of natural wonder to your backyard, you’re in the right place. Trees are amazing — they offer shade, fresh air, and beauty. But with so many types to choose from, how do you decide? Many folks go for the common ones like maples or oaks. But there’s a whole world of unique and underrated trees out there just waiting to be discovered.
We’re diving deep into the world of trees. We’ll uncover five underrated types that might be just the thing for your backyard. So grab a lemonade, sit back, and let’s explore these hidden gems of the tree world.
Why Plant Trees in Your Backyard? Let’s Dig into the Reasons!
Hey there, fellow backyard explorer! Let’s chat about something super cool: trees. You might be wondering, “Why should I plant trees in my backyard?” Great question! Here are some awesome reasons:
- Shady Business: Trees are like natural umbrellas. They give shade, making hot days feel cooler. So, imagine sipping cold juice under your own tree. Nice, right?
- Fresh Air Club: Trees are like giant air filters. They take in the bad stuff (carbon dioxide) and give out the good stuff (oxygen). More trees mean cleaner air for you and me.
- Home for Critters: Birds, squirrels, and butterflies love trees. Plant a tree, and you might just make some new wildlife pals!
- Natural Beauty: Trees are like nature’s artwork. They add color, beauty, and charm to any space. Your backyard can turn into a mini nature paradise.
- Grow & Show: As your tree grows, you can feel proud. You planted it! And every year, it’ll show off with leaves, flowers, or maybe even fruits.
Source: Pexels
Top 5 Underrated Trees for Your Backyard
1. Witch Hazel (Hamamelis)
Why it’s awesome: Have you heard of a tree that blooms in the cold months? Yep, witch hazel does just that! When many other trees are taking a winter nap, witch hazel springs to life with bright yellow flowers.
Growing Tips:
- Soil: Well-drained soil.
- Sunlight: Full to partial sun.
- Water: Regular watering but don’t let it get soggy.
Fun Fact: Some people use witch hazel extracts for skin care because of its soothing properties.
2. Grafted Persimmon Trees
Why it’s awesome: The word “persimmon” might make you think of tasty orange fruits. And you’re right! But grafted persimmon trees are special. They are made by joining two plants together. This helps them grow strong and produce more fruits.
Growing Tips:
- Soil: Deep, well-drained soil.
- Sunlight: Full sun.
- Water: Moderate. Let the top inch of soil dry between waterings.
Fun Fact: Persimmons are packed with vitamins, especially vitamin A and C.
Source: Unsplash
3. Dogwood (Cornus)
Why it’s awesome: Dogwoods are like the artists of the tree world. In the spring, they show off with beautiful flowers. And in the fall? Their leaves turn into a mix of red, purple, and orange colors.
Growing Tips:
- Soil: Moist, well-drained soil.
- Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade.
- Water: Keep the soil moist, especially when it’s young.
Fun Fact: There are over 30 species of dogwood trees, each with its own style!
4. Kentucky Coffee Tree (Gymnocladus dioicus)
Why it’s awesome: This tree has a fun name, doesn’t it? It gets its name from its seeds, which were once used as a coffee substitute. Plus, it’s strong and grows tall, making it a cool choice for larger backyards.
Growing Tips:
- Soil: Adaptable, but prefers deep, moist soil.
- Sunlight: Full sun.
- Water: Regular water when young; can handle some dryness when older.
Fun Fact: The seeds inside the tree’s pods are large and shiny, but don’t eat them—they’re not safe!
5. Tulip Tree (Liriodendron tulipifera)
Why it’s awesome: Imagine having tulips not just in a garden, but up in a tree! Tulip trees have greenish-yellow flowers that look a lot like tulips. They’re tall and can give lots of shade.
Growing Tips:
- Soil: Moist, deep, well-drained soil.
- Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade.
- Water: Regular watering, especially when it’s young.
Fun Fact: It’s called a tulip tree because the flowers look like tulips, not because it’s related to the tulip plant.
Key Takeaway
Trees are like friends. Each one is special in its own way. While it’s cool to have the popular ones, sometimes it’s the underrated ones that surprise you the most. So next time you’re thinking about adding a tree to your backyard, remember these five options. They might not be the usual picks, but they sure have a lot to offer.