WW-06989 Reviewed 2009

Recommended trees: an ecosystem approach

Trees shade and cool us in the summer, protect us from cold winter winds, supply us with clean air to breathe, beautify our communities and provide habitat for wildlife. Selecting the trees that will survive and grow into healthy urban forests requires a thorough analysis of the planting site and a careful match of the trees to that environment.

The 2009 discovery of invasive pest emerald ash borer in Minnesota means that many landowners are looking for alternatives to ash. These recommendations reflect this concern and can assist landowners making decisions about ash alternatives.

The Recommended Trees series recognizes that Minnesota is an ecologically diverse state. For this series, the state is divided into major ecological regions, each with characteristic soils, precipitation patterns, topography, and natural vegetation. Recommended trees for each region perform reliably in that environment, and should thrive for many years.

Choose a map below to learn about recommended trees for that region.

Southeast Minnesota

Southwest Minnesota

Northwest and Central Minnesota

Northern Tallgrass Prairie

These publications were produced with the support of the USDA Forest Service and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, this material is available in alternative formats upon request. Please contact your University of Minnesota Extension office or the Extension Store at (800) 876-8636.