Sellers: These Trees Can Increase Property Value

Our community has been blessed with many exquisite mature trees, some of which have gracefully shaded our towns for more than a hundred years. Many of the most beautiful Mansfield and Ashland homes for sale boast the majestic beauty of giant white ash trees or red oaks. As you seek to add value to your property, investing in trees is a wise option. But before you buy, there are some important options to consider, from what you plant to where you plant it. This handy guide may help you begin:

• Northern Red Oak
  These magnificent beauties will grow at least 2 feet each year for at least 10 years. At their full maturity, they will reach a height of at least 60 feet offering a canopy of shade about 45 feet in diameter. It should reach a height of about 20 feet in 10 years. It loves direct sunlight and tolerates drought, although it thrives in moist, well-drained soil. Since its roots will readily tolerate compacted earth, it is often the choice for newly constructed homes. Blue jays and squirrels may put up a fight over the tastiest acorns.
  
  
• Bigleaf Magnolia
  Another colossus, the Bigleaf Magnolia will grow to an average of 30 to 40 feet, but may top out at 60. Large leaves, often 30 inches in length, contribute to a gift of shade while their exquisite white flowers attract bees and birds. Their beauty is stunning, but they do require a lot of raking and are not as hearty as the Northern Red Oak. Other magnolia varieties include Sweet Bay, Saucer Magnolia, Bracken Brown Beauty, and Star Magnolia, all of which do well in this area. The fragrant blossoms eventually give way to cone-like red fruit that tends to attract wildlife.
  
  
• Sugar Maple
  Turning brilliant red, burnt orange, and yellow in the fall, these trees offer a striking addition to any landscape. Small, greenish-yellow flowers clump together on long stems from April to May. They will eventually grow to about 60 to 70 feet in height, but the process of reaching full maturity will take Sugar Maples between 30 and 40 years. Due to their extensive root system, they shouldn't be planted too close to structures, sidewalks, and driveways. They are tolerant of several soil conditions but do best in rich, well-drained soil. Don't be surprised if you see some new neighbors, though: Squirrels love to feast on the seeds, buds, and leaves.
  
  
• Crape Myrtle
  Bringing some variety and color to your landscape, crape myrtle grows to between 15 and 25 feet in height with a spread of 6 to 15 feet. It can be maintained as a small tree or a medium-sized shrub. Paper-like flowers are surrounded by dark green foliage that turns to orange, red, and yellow leaves during the fall. You can find a range of flower colors from bright red to light purple, shell pink, and deep magenta.
  
  
• Fruit Trees
  These delightful choices not only bring beauty to your property but food to your table. Apples, pears, and plums of several varieties do well in our growing zones. Don't forget cherries and peaches as well. Each fruit tree bears fragrant blossoms in spring, turning to delicious fruits from June to September. While not ready to harvest as soon as garden vegetables, you can still enjoy your own fresh fruits in three years or less, depending upon the size of the tree when planted. 

Whether your plans include a new home in Mansfield or Ashland or you are getting ready to sell, contact us at Haring Realty. Our REALTORS® will be happy to help.