One of the 10 most recognizable trees in the world is the pine tree. But what makes them so popular and special? Although they provide a gorgeous green hue for landscapes year-round, there are countless horticulture benefits when you plant pine trees. Our ISA-certified arborists in the Tri-Cities area at Promier Tree share on the blog today five reasons to plant pines in your landscaping so that you can enjoy the view and other landscape benefits too.
Pine tree history
Pine trees prove useful and valuable since the Paleolithic Period, often known as the “Caveman Period.” According to history texts, pine resin from pine cones was essential for keeping fires burning through the night when cavemen first discovered fire. The flames would burn for hours longer, providing the heat necessary to survive as the resin reacted with moisture on the cones. Additionally, the American Indians used pines for therapeutic benefits, which included relief from chest congestion and common colds to curing wounds and cuts.
Since its bark can be used to construct structures and produce paper, pine trees are now valued economically around the world. Pine tree sap and needles are used in medicine as a result of research that revealed they possess antibacterial qualities and five times as much vitamin C as lemons. During Native American times, pine trees had significance in more symbolic and spiritual contexts. In particular, tribes used pines as a peace sign and burned the bark to fend off bad spirits and shield against harmful energies.
While you may not use pine trees for these same reasons, they provide multiple benefits for modern-day Kingsport homeowners.
Why plant pines
1. Local ecosystem benefits
The capacity of pine trees to support regional ecosystems is their primary advantage. Pine trees play a crucial role in maintaining the ecosystem’s equilibrium by offering food and shelter to local species. The thick undergrowth shields the local wildlife populations from the heat, bad weather, and rapacious predators. In addition, pine trees generate nutritious seeds that are a vital part of many creatures’ diets, particularly birds and squirrels. One of Mother Nature’s greatest natural air filters is a pine forest. The needles clean and freshen the air around them by filtering and absorbing airborne microcontaminants.
2. Erosion control
Our Bristol ISA-certified arborists explain that a loss of fertile land causes soil erosion and is a problem that has an impact on agricultural output. Furthermore, soil erosion is a significant issue for the environment’s health since it increases pollutants and sediments in streams and rivers, clogging waterways. The best defense against soil erosion is pine trees, whose roots keep the soil in place. Due to their extreme hardiness and ability to live and grow in almost all soil conditions, pine trees are a popular choice for erosion management.
3. Physical benefits
In addition to their environmental benefits, pine trees are the best choice for several landscaping projects because of their physical advantages. Pine trees provide excellent planting alternatives for usage as privacy trees, a windbreak, a sound barrier, and shade covering, given their advantages of a rapid growth rate and an average height between 50 and 80 feet tall.
4. Hardiness
Pine trees can withstand most environmental conditions and are hardy in USDA zones 3a to 9b. Our Johnson City ISA-certified arborists explain that their durability makes them a popular option for yards where many trees could struggle to live. The majority of plants experience stress when they are moved. However, pine trees are mellow by nature and adapt well. In addition, the pine doesn’t have a lot of serious insect or disease issues and is resistant to deer.
5. Aesthetics
The aesthetic value pine trees add to an outdoor space is justification for including them in your landscaping. A canopy of engulfing green is formed by the tree’s thin, fluffy needles, which gives any place a secure, alluring feeling. These trees’ aesthetic appeal speaks for itself, but people also like them for the soothing pine aroma they emit.
Isa-certified arborists in Kingsport, Johnson City, and Bristol, Tennessee
You won’t regret adding a pine tree to your yard, whether you choose to plant them for its usefulness or because you like the way they look. There’s a wide variety of pine trees, from the traditional and well-liked White Pine Tree to the more unusual and highly sought-after Norfolk Island Pine. If you have questions about pine trees and which species is best for your landscaping needs, please contact our Kingsport landscaping experts at Promier Tree by calling (423) 765-2626 or contacting us online.