If you’re planting native trees and shrubs in your yard this fall, you’re likely going through the usual considerations about where to place them: Are there any underground utilities? Are there any overhead wires? Is it far enough away from the fence? But have you considered your plant’s sex and if it will produce fruits, nuts or pollen? Before starting, ask yourself these questions.
Does the Tree Need Another Nearby to Produce Fruit?
Some trees and shrubs are dioecious. Pawpaw, red cedar and common winterberry are examples. When planting these trees or shrubs, make sure you have the space to plant at least one male and one female close together so the female tree or shrub can produce fruit.
What Fruits or Nuts Will the Tree Produce?
Sometimes you can’t choose a male or female plant. Many trees and shrubs produce nuts and fruits valuable to birds but difficult to sit or park your car under. All walnut and oak trees produce fruit, so are better planted away from decks, patios and driveways. Similarly, the delicious purple berries of serviceberries are usually plucked off by hungry birds (and humans!) before they even drop to the ground. To be on the safe side, you may not want to plant them right next to a sidewalk or driveway.
Does this Tree Have Heavy Pollen?
Some trees produce pollen light enough to be carried away in the wind. However, many conifers, such as pine and spruce, produce heavy pollen that drops to the ground. As most local conifers are monoecious, pollen can’t be avoided if you are planting these wonderful shade trees. This heavy pollen is less likely to make allergy sufferers sneeze but can leave a yellow dusting on whatever is below – so consider planting your evergreens away from patios and driveways.