Trees and shrubs have many varied benefits - habitat, shading, water quality, and the list goes on. Follow the link if you've considered adding trees and shrubs to your yard and are looking for a place to start...
When choosing trees and shrubs for your landscape it is best to select a tree or shrub that works well for the conditions found in that location. Sun exposure, moisture requirements, susceptibility to disease, plant hardiness zone (4 for Apple Valley), and size are some of the most important characteristics to consider.
Ultimate size of the tree or shrub is often overlooked. Think about how big the tree will be when it reaches maturity, both height and spread (width). Avoid planting tall trees under overhead lines and trees and shrubs too close to houses and other structures.
Also consider the location of utilities on your property when planting trees and shrubs. Placing trees and shrubs over utilities (sewer hookups, electric lines, gas, etc.) can lead to expensive maintenance and removal of the trees or shrubs. You also risk injury when digging a hole to plant your tree over utilities. Contact Gopher State One Call at www.GopherStateOneCall.org to locate utilities on your property before digging.
Are you looking to attract more wildlife to your property? Here is a really good article from Penn State on that topic http://extension.psu.edu/natural-resources/wildlife/landscaping-for-wildlife/pa-wildlife-7. Most of the trees and shrubs listed are also acceptable for Apple Valley with a few exceptions that won't survive in plant hardiness zone 4.
Once you've decided on what kind of trees and shrubs you would like to plant and where, check the City website at www.cityofapplevalley.org for information on the 2016 Tree Sale. Ordering will begin the first week of March.