General

The 4 best trees to plant this fall

Fall is a great time to plant trees for next year, and you may be considering planting some of your own. But before you head off to the nursery, check out this list of the best trees to plant successfully in a climate like Nebraska’s.

OPPD foresters recommends the following tree types for successful additions to your yard. These species and more can be seen in person at the OPPD Arboretum, 108^th and Blondo streets.

Red oak

This medium to large shade tree is known for its hardiness and adaptability as well as its brilliant fall foliage. It features a spreading canopy that can block considerable sunlight.

Size: 60-70 feet at maturity, with a spread of around 45 feet

Growth rate: This is a relatively fast-growing tree, gaining more than 24 inches per year

Location: Full sun is ideal

Sugar maple

Another fall showstopper, this tree is popular – four states claim this tree as their state tree, more than any other. This maple has an oval shape and grows at a slow to medium rate.

Size: 60-70 feet at maturity, with a spread up to 50 feet

Location: Does well in full or partial shade

Gingko

This tree is known for its uniquely shaped leaves that turn a bright yellow in the fall. It also has high tolerance for drought and establishes easily.

Size: 25-50 feet at maturity, with a spread of up to 35 feet

Growth rate: Medium, increasing 13-24 inches per year

Location: Full sun and partial shade are best, with a minimum of four hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight

Concolor (white) fir

If you’re looking for a hardy evergreen that will thrive in an urban setting, this fir may be a good choice.

Size: 30-50 feet at maturity, with a spread of about 20 feet

Growth rate: Slow to medium, with gains of less than 12 inches to 24 inches per year

Location: Full sun and partial shade are best, with a minimum of four hours of direct sunlight daily.