Planting a tree (or trees!) in your yard has so many benefits. Trees increase property value, positively contribute to air quality and improve the environment. They also provide you, the homeowner, with privacy, shade, sometimes food (if you pick a fruiting variety), and they can attract some pretty remarkable wildlife. But, particularly given the harsh winters we experience here in Bismarck, it makes sense to select trees that not only can survive but will thrive in our climate.
Native trees, which are species that have historically been found naturally growing in a particular location, are a wonderful place to start. But, there are also a couple of other trees to choose from that are not necessarily native to North Dakota but are still quite adaptable to the area.
These are just 5 of our favorite native and non-native trees that will thrive in North Dakota.
1. Hybrid Elms
While American elm trees are native to North America, many hybrid elms are developed using Asian and European Elm species. Their growth characteristics, hardiness, and ability to resist common pests can vary a fair bit. These fast-growing trees tend to need fairly regular pruning in their early years to encourage them to develop a single lower trunk. Elms have relatively shallow root systems, provide wonderful shade once they are developed, and they’re generally just beautiful to have in your landscape!
2. Serviceberry
Also often referred to as Juneberry, serviceberry trees are a wonderful native option for North Dakota landscapes. They tend to grow most vigorously when planted in full sun and moist, well-draining soil. These are one of those native trees (or shrubs, depending on the cultivar) that will provide food if cared for properly! The Saskatoon berry (another serviceberry variety) tends to produce extra tasty fruit, but even if you’re not in the market for one for its edible purposes, serviceberry will also shower you with beautiful, showy white flowers in the springtime and lovely foliage in the fall.
3. Bur Oak
Native to all but the Northwest corner of the United States, the Bur Oak will fare just fine in North Dakota landscapes. This long-lived tree, also often referred to as Mossycup Oak, will grow about one to two feet per year once established. They prefer fertile loam soil but will still perform well elsewhere. Bur Oak also grows best in full sun, but they are a little shade tolerant.
4. Honey Locust
The Honey Locust is native to many parts of the United States, just not quite as far north as North Dakota. With that said, it is a very adaptable tree that will still grow in our climate as it is hardy up to zone 4. They are popular among city landscapes because their tiny little leaves, which turn a brilliant yellow in the fall, don’t need to be cleaned up! While many cultivars produce relatively large seed pods that can make a bit of a mess; there are many that don’t. The Honey Locust is also known for growing large thorns, but again, if you want to avoid them, there are many thornless cultivars.
5. Ohio Buckeye
Originating from the Southeastern portion of the United States, North Dakota sits just Northwest of the native zone of the Ohio Buckeye. They are hardy up to zone 3, though, and thus are happy to grow here! It has beautiful, showy blooms early in the season from May through June. And, while it is considered a ‘messy’ tree by some due to the nuts it produces (and then drops around September or October), it is still quite popular in both urban and rural landscapes. Plus, the squirrels love the nuts so much that you’re generally just left with some husks to rake up along with the rest of the fall foliage!
Buying and planting a tree is the type of commitment we can get behind. Whether you want it for shade, privacy, or simply to add interest to your yard, it’s a gift that will keep on giving for years to come. If you’re looking for native or non-native trees in North Dakota, we have all of the above and more in stock at the garden center. Stop by and see what speaks to you!