SunSafeYork.org

   Plant Trees, build shade: for your health and the environment

info@SunSafeYork.org

Natural Shade

Both deciduous trees (trees that lose their leaves every year) and coniferous trees (trees that maintain their leaves throughout the year) provide shade.

The effectiveness of natural shade depends upon the density of the foliage (leaves).

Factors to Consider When Choosing to Plant a Tree for Shade:

• A tall deciduous tree with a wide canopy of dense leaves will give you maximum shade in the summer, and allow the warming rays of the sun to come through in the winter.

• Plant deciduous trees to the south and southwest of where you require shade.

• Consider the site environment such as climate and soil, and the size and shape of the tree at maturity. Allow the tree sufficient space to grow to its maximum size. Try to plant trees native to York Region.

• Also consider when to plant, how to prepare the site and tree for planting, and tree care requirements such as watering, fertilizing and pruning. Local nursery staff can best advise you.

Trees that are well suited to the climate and environment of York Region:

Tree	Height	Worth Noting
Red Maple	25 M	Attractive upright round shape Stunning red fall foliage
Sugar Maple	35 M	Superb shade tree suited to a large yard or open area Brilliant yellow, orange or red fall foliage
Silver Maple	35 M	Grows well on moist or wet sites Brilliant yellow, orange or red fall foliage
Horse Chestnut	25 M	White flowers in early summer Suited to a large yard or open space
Honey Locust	30 M	Provides dappled shade Allows turf to grow underneath
White Oak	35 M	Suited to a large yard or open space Brilliant red-purple fall foliage
Bur Oak	15 M	Stately tree with deeply furrowed gnarled bark Suited to a large yard or open space
Red Oak	25 M	Rounded shape becoming symmetrical with age Dark leaves the turn red in the fall
Little Leaf Linden	23 M	Dark green leaves with silver undersides Small fragrant flowers in early summer

Powered by: Domino Marketing Communications                                                  100% Green Energy Hosting                                          Resources: Links & Downloads                               

©2008 York Region SunSense Coalition

Plant Trees, Build Shade for Your Health and the Environment