Green Real Estate Appraiser

Do trees add value to your property?  Depends.  What I can tell you is when I see a large, beautiful tree on someones property I look at the canopy. The rule of thumb is the canopy is half the size of the root system.  If the tree is close to the home then I start to look for the plumbing main.  Many homes have to have the main replaced because roots have grown into the main and damaged the pipes.  Roots have been known to crack foundations and grow into walls.  Before you buy a home that has many trees and plants on the property you may want to have your local plumber use a scope to check the integrity of the pipes. 

Contact the appraiser at www.scappraisalserv.com for you value questions.

Including trees and shrubs at your home to add shade and privacy is a long-term commitment. There are many important factors to consider when choosing these plants, and you must think ahead. “Fast growing” and “large” are great qualities, but here are a few things to consider with trees and shrubs:

• Choose the right size for your space. Always look at the height, width and maturity rate of the tree or shrub before you plant. Consider the proportions of your home; you don’t want a tree or shrub blocking a path or growing in areas you did not intend.

• Don’t forget about roots! Some shallow-rooted trees can cause damage to your home, walls, patios, or sidewalks.

• Camphor, jacaranda, elm, Southern magnolia, and liquidambar are great large trees to choose for wide open spaces, while purple leaf plum, orchid, crape myrtle and dwarf magnolia are perfect for smaller homes.

• Consider the seasons. Evergreen trees keep their growth year-round, while deciduous trees lose their leaves in the winter. (Deciduous are great for saving on heat costs because they allow the sun to hit your home.)

• Before you plant, be aware of how they may bloom. Fallen flowers or seed pods can track easily into the home or create a mess.

• Create extra privacy for your home with shrubs, including cape honeysuckle, Texas privet, acacia and purple hopseed that have great height and width.

• If you do not have room for shrubs or trees, consider mounting a trellis on an existing fence with white or pink bower vines for privacy.

Be sure to water your trees and shrubs regularly after planting (especially in hot weather), fertilize as directed, and consult your local nursery professional about the types of trees or shrubs that are the most insect- and disease-resistant for your area.

Thanks to Patty Cordero is a California Certified Nursery Professional and the manager of the Armstrong Garden Centers located in Mission Valley for some of the content.

Disclaimer for information and entertainment purposes only.