Best Trees for Landscaping in Illinois: A Guide to Choosing the Right Trees for Your Yard

If you’re looking to add some greenery to your Illinois landscape, you’ll want to choose trees that can survive and thrive in the state’s climate. Illinois has a varied climate, with hot summers and cold winters, so it’s important to select trees that can handle these conditions. Fortunately, there are many tree species that are native to Illinois and can do well in the state’s climate.

When selecting trees for your landscaping, you’ll want to consider factors such as size, shape, and color. Some trees are better suited for privacy or creating hedges, while others are prized for their fruit or flowers. Additionally, you’ll want to think about the maintenance requirements of different tree species, as some trees require more care than others.

Overall, selecting the right trees for your Illinois landscape can enhance the beauty of your property and provide numerous benefits, such as shade and improved air quality. By choosing trees that are well-suited for the state’s climate and your specific landscaping needs, you can create a stunning outdoor space that you’ll enjoy for years to come.

Key Takeaways

• Choose trees that can survive and thrive in Illinois’ varied climate
• Consider factors such as size, shape, color, and maintenance requirements when selecting trees for your landscaping
• Selecting the right trees for your Illinois landscape can enhance the beauty of your property and provide numerous benefits.

Understanding Illinois Climate

When it comes to landscaping, it is important to choose trees that can thrive in the climate of your area. Illinois has a temperate climate with hot summers and cold winters. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has divided the United States into growing zones based on their average minimum temperatures. Illinois is in Zones 5 and 6, which means the average minimum temperature ranges from -20°F to 0°F in Zone 5 and from 0°F to 10°F in Zone 6.

In the summer, temperatures in Illinois can reach up to 90°F or higher, with high humidity levels. This makes it important to choose trees that can tolerate both heat and humidity. Some trees that can thrive in Illinois summers include the Kentucky Coffeetree, Redbud, and American Hornbeam.

In the winter, temperatures in Illinois can drop below freezing, with occasional snow and ice storms. This makes it important to choose trees that can tolerate cold temperatures and harsh winter conditions. Some trees that can thrive in Illinois winters include the White Oak, Sugar Maple, and American Sycamore.

When selecting trees for your landscaping, it is important to consider their growing zones and their ability to tolerate the climate of your area. By choosing trees that are well-suited to Illinois’ climate, you can ensure that they will thrive in your landscaping and provide beauty and shade for years to come.

Tree Species Native to Illinois

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If you are looking to landscape your property in Illinois, consider planting native trees. Native trees are adapted to the local climate and soil, making them easier to care for and more likely to thrive. Here are some popular native tree species to consider:

• Elm trees: The American elm (Ulmus americana) is a classic shade tree with a vase-like shape. It can grow up to 100 feet tall and has attractive, serrated leaves. Unfortunately, many elms have been lost to Dutch elm disease, so be sure to select a disease-resistant variety.

• Fir trees: The balsam fir (Abies balsamea) is a popular Christmas tree with a conical shape and aromatic needles. It is also a good option for windbreaks and privacy screens.

• Redbud trees: The eastern redbud (Cercis canadensis) is a small tree with heart-shaped leaves and pink or purple flowers in early spring. It is a great choice for small yards or as an understory tree.

• Willow trees: The weeping willow (Salix babylonica) is a fast-growing tree with graceful, drooping branches. It prefers moist soil and can be planted near water features.

• Hickory trees: The shagbark hickory (Carya ovata) is a large, slow-growing tree with shaggy bark and edible nuts. It is a good choice for wildlife habitat and can also be used for firewood.

• Oak trees: The white oak (Quercus alba) is the state tree of Illinois and a popular choice for landscaping. It has a broad, spreading crown and attractive fall foliage. Other oak species to consider include the red oak (Quercus rubra) and the bur oak (Quercus macrocarpa).

• Maple trees: The sugar maple (Acer saccharum) is a beautiful tree with vibrant fall colors and sap that can be used to make maple syrup. It prefers well-drained soil and can be sensitive to salt.

• Ash trees: The green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica) and white ash (Fraxinus americana) are both native to Illinois and commonly used in landscaping. They have compound leaves and can grow up to 80 feet tall.

• Birch trees: The river birch (Betula nigra) is a fast-growing tree with attractive peeling bark. It prefers moist soil and can be planted near water features.

• Crabapple trees: Crabapple trees (Malus spp.) are known for their showy spring flowers and colorful fruit. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes and can be used as specimen trees or in group plantings.

• Japanese maple trees: Japanese maple (Acer palmatum) is a small tree with delicate, lacy leaves and attractive bark. It is a popular choice for bonsai and container gardening.

• Magnolia trees: The southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) is a large, evergreen tree with glossy leaves and fragrant white flowers. It is a good choice for screening and privacy.

• Sweetgum trees: The sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua) is a medium-sized tree with star-shaped leaves and spiky fruit. It has attractive fall foliage and can be used as a shade tree.

• Dogwood trees: The flowering dogwood (Cornus florida) is a small tree with showy spring flowers and attractive fall foliage. It prefers partial shade and well-drained soil.

• Evergreen trees: Evergreen trees can provide year-round color and privacy. Some popular evergreen species to consider include:

  • Arborvitae (Thuja spp.): These trees have a narrow, conical shape and are commonly used as privacy screens.

  • Juniper (Juniperus spp.): Junipers are low-maintenance trees with blue-green foliage and a variety of shapes and sizes.

  • Leyland cypress (× Cupressocyparis leylandii): Leyland cypress is a fast-growing tree with a conical shape and soft, feathery foliage.

  • Serbian spruce (Picea omorika): The Serbian spruce is a narrow, conical tree with attractive blue-green needles.

  • White fir (Abies concolor): The white fir is a large, conical tree with silvery-blue needles.

  • Hemlock (Tsuga spp.): Hemlocks are shade-tolerant trees with graceful, drooping branches and soft, dark green needles.

Best Trees for Landscaping

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If you’re looking to add some trees to your Illinois landscape, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the best trees for landscaping in Illinois:

White Oak

White Oak is a popular tree for landscaping in Illinois. It’s a large, long-lived tree that can grow up to 100 feet tall. It has a broad, spreading crown and attractive foliage that turns a beautiful red color in the fall. White Oak is also a good choice for wildlife, as it provides food and habitat for many species.

Eastern Redbud

Eastern Redbud is a small tree that’s perfect for adding color to your landscape. It has beautiful pink or purple flowers in the spring, followed by heart-shaped leaves that turn yellow in the fall. Eastern Redbud is also a good choice for small yards, as it only grows up to 30 feet tall.

Sugar Maple

Sugar Maple is another popular tree for landscaping in Illinois. It’s a large, slow-growing tree that can live for hundreds of years. It has a beautiful shape and attractive foliage that turns a brilliant orange-red color in the fall. Sugar Maple is also a good choice for wildlife, as it provides food and habitat for many species.

Serviceberry

Serviceberry is a small tree that’s perfect for adding interest to your landscape. It has beautiful white flowers in the spring, followed by edible berries that are popular with birds and other wildlife. Serviceberry also has attractive foliage that turns a beautiful red color in the fall.

Crabapple

Crabapple is a small tree that’s perfect for adding color to your landscape. It has beautiful pink or white flowers in the spring, followed by small, edible fruit that’s popular with birds and other wildlife. Crabapple also has attractive foliage that turns a beautiful red or yellow color in the fall.

When choosing trees for your Illinois landscape, it’s important to consider factors such as soil type, sun exposure, and size. You can get advice on selecting the best trees for your specific landscape by visiting a garden center or consulting with an expert at the Morton Arboretum.

Planting and Maintenance

When it comes to planting trees in Illinois, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that they thrive in your landscape. First, it is important to choose a tree species that is well-suited to the local climate and soil conditions. You can consult with a local nursery or landscaping professional to determine which trees are best for your area.

Once you have selected your tree, it is important to plant it properly. Dig a hole that is slightly wider than the root ball and deep enough so that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Be sure to remove any burlap or wire from the root ball before planting. Water the tree thoroughly after planting, and add a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture.

Regular maintenance is also important to keep your trees healthy and looking their best. This includes regular pruning to remove dead or damaged branches and to shape the tree as it grows. It is important to prune trees during the dormant season to minimize stress on the tree.

Proper irrigation is also essential for tree health. Trees should be watered deeply, but infrequently, to encourage deep root growth. This is especially important during hot, dry weather. Be sure to water the tree at the base, rather than from above, to avoid wetting the leaves.

Finally, it is important to ensure that your tree is planted in soil with good drainage. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, you may need to amend it with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage. Trees that are planted in poorly-drained soil are more susceptible to root rot and other diseases.

By following these planting and maintenance tips, you can ensure that your trees thrive in your Illinois landscape for years to come.

Trees for Privacy and Hedges

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If you’re looking to create a natural barrier around your property or to add some privacy to your backyard, planting trees for hedges is a great option. Some of the best trees for privacy and hedges in Illinois include:

• Thuja Green Giant: This evergreen tree is a popular choice for hedges due to its fast growth rate, dense foliage, and ability to withstand harsh weather conditions. It can grow up to 3-5 feet per year and reach a height of 30-40 feet at maturity. Thuja Green Giant is also deer-resistant, making it a great choice for areas with wildlife.

• Eastern Red Cedar: Another evergreen tree that is commonly used for hedges and privacy screens is the Eastern Red Cedar. It has a conical shape and can grow up to 40-50 feet tall. This tree is also drought-resistant and can tolerate a wide range of soil types.

• Arborvitae: Arborvitae is a narrow, upright evergreen tree that offers dense foliage in a deep, brilliant green all year long. Planted in a hedge row, this tree offers great privacy. Highly adaptable, hardy, and needing little maintenance, this green stunner is known for its desirable columnar form.

• Privet: Privet is a fast-growing deciduous shrub that can reach a height of 8-12 feet. It has small, glossy leaves and produces fragrant white flowers in the spring. Privet is also easy to maintain and can be pruned to create a dense hedge.

When selecting trees for privacy and hedges, it’s important to consider factors such as growth rate, height, and maintenance requirements. You should also make sure that the trees you choose are suitable for your soil type and climate.

Overall, planting trees for privacy and hedges is a great way to add beauty and functionality to your landscape. With the right trees and proper care, you can create a natural barrier around your property that will provide privacy and protection for years to come.

Fruit and Flowering Trees

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If you’re looking for trees that add both beauty and practicality to your landscape, consider planting fruit and flowering trees. Not only do they provide ornamental value with their beautiful blooms, but they also produce delicious fruit that you can enjoy throughout the growing season. Here are some of the best fruit and flowering trees for landscaping in Illinois:

Apple Trees

Apple trees are a great choice for Illinois because they are cold-hardy and can thrive in the state’s cooler spring and fall months. They are also easy to grow and can produce fruit even when there is snow or frost late into the spring. Popular apple varieties for Illinois include Honeycrisp, Red Delicious, and Granny Smith.

Flowering Dogwood Trees

Flowering dogwood trees are a beautiful addition to any landscape. They produce stunning pink or white blooms in the spring and have attractive foliage throughout the summer and fall. They are also relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions. Some popular varieties for Illinois include Cherokee Brave and Appalachian Spring.

Downy Serviceberry Trees

Downy serviceberry trees are another great option for Illinois. They produce beautiful white blooms in the spring and have attractive foliage that turns a stunning shade of red in the fall. They are also a great choice for pollinators, as their flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.

Ornamental Value and Fall Color

In addition to their practical benefits, fruit and flowering trees also add ornamental value to your landscape. Many varieties produce stunning blooms in the spring and have attractive foliage that turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow in the fall. Some popular trees for fall color in Illinois include sugar maple, red maple, and oak trees.

Pollinators

If you’re looking to attract pollinators to your landscape, fruit and flowering trees are a great choice. Many varieties produce flowers that are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. Some great options for pollinators in Illinois include cherry trees, peach trees, and plum trees.

In conclusion, fruit and flowering trees are a great addition to any landscape in Illinois. They provide both ornamental value and practical benefits, making them a smart choice for any homeowner. Whether you’re looking for beautiful blooms, delicious fruit, or fall color, there’s a tree out there that’s perfect for your needs.

Dealing with Pests and Diseases

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When it comes to maintaining healthy trees in your landscaping, it’s important to understand how to deal with pests and diseases. Here are some tips to help you keep your trees healthy and thriving:

Identify Common Pests and Diseases

The first step in dealing with pests and diseases is to identify them. Some common pests in Illinois include bark beetles and caterpillars. Diseases that can affect trees include Dutch elm disease and oak wilt. If you notice any signs of pests or diseases, such as holes in the bark or wilting leaves, it’s important to take action as soon as possible.

Practice Good Tree Care

One of the best ways to prevent pests and diseases is to practice good tree care. This includes regular watering, fertilizing, and pruning. By keeping your trees healthy, you’ll be better equipped to fight off pests and diseases.

Use Natural Remedies

If you do notice pests or diseases on your trees, there are natural remedies you can use to help control them. For example, you can use neem oil or insecticidal soap to control pests. For diseases, you can use a copper fungicide to help prevent the spread of the disease.

Consider Professional Help

If you’re dealing with a serious pest or disease problem, it may be best to seek professional help. A certified arborist can help you identify the problem and recommend the best course of action. They can also provide treatments and ongoing care to help keep your trees healthy.

By following these tips, you can help prevent and control pests and diseases in your trees. This will help ensure that your landscaping stays beautiful and healthy for years to come.

Trees for Different Regions in Illinois

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Illinois is a diverse state with varying climates and soil types. Therefore, it’s important to choose trees that are well-suited for the region you live in. Here are some tree species that thrive in different regions of Illinois:

Northern Illinois

If you live in the northern part of Illinois, you should consider planting trees that can tolerate cold temperatures and heavy snowfall. Some good options include:

• Norway Spruce: This evergreen tree is a popular choice for landscaping in northern Illinois. It can grow up to 60 feet tall and has a pyramidal shape.
• White Pine: This tall, graceful tree is native to the region and can grow up to 100 feet tall. It has long, soft needles and produces large cones.
• Sugar Maple: This tree is known for its stunning fall foliage and can grow up to 80 feet tall. It’s a slow-growing tree, but it’s worth the wait.

Southern Illinois

If you live in the southern part of Illinois, you should choose trees that can tolerate hot, humid summers and mild winters. Some good options include:

• Bald Cypress: This deciduous tree is native to the southern United States and can grow up to 100 feet tall. It’s known for its unique, buttressed trunk and feathery foliage.
• Redbud: This small tree is known for its vibrant pink or purple flowers that bloom in early spring. It’s a great choice for smaller yards or as an understory tree.
• American Sycamore: This tree is known for its distinctive bark, which peels away to reveal white, green, and brown patches. It can grow up to 100 feet tall and is tolerant of wet soil.

Chicago and Suburbs

If you live in the Chicago area or suburbs, you should choose trees that can tolerate urban pollution and compacted soil. Some good options include:

• Honeylocust: This tree is known for its delicate, fern-like foliage and can grow up to 80 feet tall. It’s tolerant of pollution and can grow in a variety of soil types.
• Ginkgo: This tree is known for its fan-shaped leaves and brilliant yellow fall foliage. It’s tolerant of pollution and can grow in compacted soil.
• Serviceberry: This small tree is known for its white spring flowers and edible berries. It’s a great choice for smaller yards and can tolerate urban pollution.

No matter where you live in the Land of Lincoln, there are plenty of tree species that will thrive in your region. By choosing the right trees for your area, you can create a beautiful, healthy landscape that will enhance your home’s curb appeal and provide numerous environmental benefits.

Understanding Tree Growth

When selecting trees for your landscaping in Illinois, it’s important to understand how trees grow. This knowledge will help you choose the right trees for your specific needs and ensure that they thrive in your landscape.

Growth Rate

One of the most important factors to consider when selecting trees is their growth rate. Some trees grow quickly, while others take years to reach maturity. If you want a tree that will provide shade and beauty quickly, choose a fast-growing species like the Superior Hybrid Poplar or the Quaking Aspen. If you’re willing to wait for a more mature tree, consider a slower-growing species like the Bur Oak or the American Beech.

Height and Spread

Another important consideration is the mature height and spread of the tree. You want to make sure that the tree you choose will fit in your landscape and won’t interfere with power lines or other structures. Consider the mature size of the tree before planting it. For example, the Eastern Redbud is a small tree that only grows to about 20 feet tall and 25 feet wide, making it a great choice for smaller landscapes.

Foliage

The foliage of the tree is also an important consideration. Some trees have evergreen foliage that stays green year-round, while others have deciduous foliage that changes color and falls off in the fall. Consider the look you want for your landscape and choose a tree with foliage that fits your vision.

Maturity

Finally, consider the maturity of the tree. Some trees reach maturity quickly, while others take decades to reach their full potential. If you want a tree that will provide shade and beauty quickly, choose a fast-growing species like the Superior Hybrid Poplar or the Quaking Aspen. If you’re willing to wait for a more mature tree, consider a slower-growing species like the Bur Oak or the American Beech.

By understanding how trees grow, you can choose the right trees for your landscape and ensure that they thrive for years to come.

Community and Expert Resources

When it comes to selecting the best trees for your landscaping needs in Illinois, it’s always helpful to consult with experts and community resources. Fortunately, there are many resources available to help you make informed decisions.

The University of Illinois has a comprehensive tree selection database that provides information on a variety of tree species, including their growth habits, environmental requirements, and potential pests and diseases. This resource can help you select the best tree for your specific location and needs.

In addition to the University of Illinois, there are many other research institutions and organizations that offer expertise on tree selection and care. The Morton Arboretum is a leading authority on trees and offers a wealth of information on their website, including advice on tree planting and care, as well as resources for identifying and treating tree diseases and pests.

For community resources, consider reaching out to local gardening clubs, tree planting organizations, or your city’s parks and recreation department. These groups often have valuable knowledge and experience in selecting and caring for trees in your area.

Overall, taking advantage of community and expert resources can help you make informed decisions and ensure the success of your landscaping efforts.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What are some small native trees that thrive in Illinois?

If you’re looking for small native trees to add to your Illinois landscape, consider the serviceberry, dogwood, or redbud. These trees offer beautiful blooms in the spring, colorful foliage in the fall, and are generally low maintenance.

What are the top fruit trees to plant in Illinois?

Illinois is a great place to grow fruit trees, and some of the top varieties include apple, cherry, peach, and pear trees. When selecting fruit trees, it’s important to choose varieties that are suitable for the Illinois climate and soil conditions.

What are the best shade trees for the Illinois climate?

If you’re looking to add some shade to your Illinois landscape, consider planting oak, maple, or elm trees. These trees are well-suited to the Illinois climate and can provide beautiful shade during the hot summer months.

Which trees have the most visually appealing bark in Illinois?

If you’re looking for trees with interesting bark, consider the paperbark maple, river birch, or lacebark pine. These trees have unique bark patterns and textures that can add visual interest to your landscape year-round.

What are the most popular trees for landscaping in Illinois?

Some of the most popular trees for landscaping in Illinois include the maple, oak, and spruce. These trees are well-suited to the Illinois climate and can provide year-round beauty and interest to your landscape.

What are some zone 5 trees under 20 feet that are suitable for landscaping in Illinois?

If you’re looking for smaller trees to add to your Illinois landscape, consider the Japanese maple, crabapple, or serviceberry. These trees are suitable for zone 5 climates and can add beauty and interest to your landscape without taking up too much space.