There's nothing you can add to your Front yard or garden that improves your home as much as a tree does. On the practical side, a tree can provide shade, block harsh winds and even muffle the noise of a busy street. On the esthetic front, a tree is a continual source of beauty and enjoyment as it grows over the years and changes throughout the seasons. A tree or plants can also add value to your home. It's not difficult to achieve all of these goals-if you're armed with a little knowledge about choosing the best site in your yard, buying the right tree and plants and planting then correctly. You'll find the knowledge that you are looking for in a plant and tree nursery.

If you know where you want to plant a tree, then you need to look for a species that you like, that will grow well in the soil and sun at the site and that will not outgrow the location over its lifetime. Finding trees and plants that will flourish in your yard is fairly simple, plant and tree nurseries will provide you with a list of appropriate plants and trees. But you still have to consider a plant and tree's size and habits. For example, large shade trees, such as European beech or white oak, are great at bringing relief from summer heat. They shouldn't, however, be planted next to a swimming pool, where they'll create extra work for you by dropping their leaves into the water. You should consider a plant or trees root system (surface roots can wreck a lawn and lift concrete), maintenance needs (some trees require lots of pruning or raking), and resistance to insects and diseases. As you look at different trees and plants, you may change your mind on where you want to plant them.

Keep the following in mind:

• Plant a large tree at least 7 meters. away from the house. Place a small tree at least 3 meters. away.
• Avoid planting a tree where it will overhang your house, block a door or obstruct a desirable view from indoors.
• Don't plant a tree that will exceed a height of 8 meters underneath overhead power lines.
• Don't dig above underground utility lines. For help in locating electric, cable, phone and water lines on your property, contact each of your utility companies directly.
• Plant where roots have ample room to grow. Be cautious of sewer and drain lines (roots can puncture them), paved surfaces (they will buckle) and even areas of lawn (surface roots steal water and make mowing a nightmare).
• Consider visibility. Place a tree with low-growing branches far from the corner of a block so it doesn't block the vision of motorists who stop at the intersection.
• Be a good neighbor. Don't plant a tree directly on or near your property line.