Selecting the right tree for your property starts with understanding the unique conditions of your site. Consider the following factors to ensure your tree will thrive:
Soil Type: Charlottetown’s soil tends to be acidic and low in organic material, but can have variable amounts of sand, silt, and clay. All trees included in our Tree Fact Sheets can tolerate Charlottetown’s soil conditions.
Sunlight Availability: Assess how much shade your chosen location receives throughout the day and select a tree species with matching light requirements.
- Full shade: Less than 4 hours of direct sunlight per day
- Partial shade: 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day
- No shade: 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day
Space Constraints: Take into account the mature size of the tree, including height and canopy spread, to ensure it fits well within the available space without interfering with structures, power lines, or other plants. Please ensure the site meets the following criteria:
- The site is at least two meters from the sidewalks and roads.
- The site is at least seven meters from building foundations.
- The site is at least three meters from pipes, sewers, and fire hydrants.
- Low-growing trees (under 6m when mature) may be planted adjacent to overhead power lines, but no closer than 1.5m.
- Medium-sized trees (6-12m when mature) must be at least 6m from overhead power lines.
- Large-sized trees (over 12m when mature) must be at least 12m from overhead power lines.
Drainage and Moisture Levels: Evaluate how well your soil drains after rainfall and choose species that can tolerate the moisture conditions, whether it’s well-drained, damp, or waterlogged soil. All trees have different moisture requirements, so it is important to ensure that you choose a tree that is well-suited for your soil’s moisture levels. For example, Eastern Larch and Red Maple prefer moist soil while Red Oak and Staghorn sumac thrive in well-drained soils.
Please note, it is recommended that all species are watered regularly for at least two years after planting, regardless of the species’ drought tolerance.
Purpose: Identify your goals for planting the tree—whether for shade, privacy, ornamental value, or wildlife habitat—and select a species that fulfills those needs.
By matching tree species to your site conditions, you’ll ensure that your tree remains healthy and contributes positively to your property and the environment.