Types of Trees Native to Southeast Georgia

Georgia is home to over 250 species of trees. Included on the list are some deciduous trees, like the Oak, Hickory, and Maple. The list also includes evergreen trees like the Pine, Myrtle, and Holly trees. What you decide to put in your garden will depend on how much space you have, and how much maintenance you want to do. 

Deciduous Trees 

There is nothing that quite beats the show that most deciduous trees put on in the fall. The leaves change from green to fiery reds, yellows, and oranges and look amazing. Once the leaves fall off, however, the trees are bare until the spring again. 

This means less garden maintenance over the winter period because you don’t have to rake leaves, but also less color in the garden during this time. 

Consider these if you like your trees to give a spectacular show and don’t want to rake leaves in winter.
 
Evergreen Trees

The advantage with evergreen trees is that they keep their leaves all year round. This makes them great for having in the garden during winter, especially if you need the trees to act as a windbreak. The green helps to relieve the deadness of winter but does also entail more raking of leaves year-round. 

Consider evergreens in areas where you need a little more shelter from the wind and if you like splashes of green all year-round. 

Which Should I Plant? 

We would advise considering what your specific needs are first. Our recommendation would to be consider incorporating both types in your garden if you have the space to do so. That way, you get the benefit of both types. 

Here are some ideas to get you started: 

• The Trident Maple: This is a deciduous tree that is not huge and that gives a fiery display in the fall. They are not keen on the frost though so not as suitable in areas that experience heavy frost. 
• The Yellow Buckeye: These trees are lovely but grow very tall. As a result, they are better in very large gardens. It is also worth noting that the tree’s fruit is toxic to humans so it might not be the best choice if you have little kids. 
• Downy Serviceberry: This deciduous tree will grow in areas where there is partial shade so is ideal when you need to fill in a shady patch.  
• Devil’s Walkingstick: This is a smaller tree so will be good for a smaller yard. The reason for its name is that the trunk is prickly. It might not be great for your kids to climb in but it has stunning flowers.  
• River Birch: This is a medium to a tall tree and has bark that is an interesting color. 

Why not consider planting a tree or two in your garden this year? They are very undemanding once established and make wonderful additions to your home. Here at Brunswick Tree Service we highly recommend adding fresh trees to your landscape when possible.
​
For best results, check with your local nursery about the best options for your specific area and also what kind of care and maintenance might be required.