A classic mistake that eager homeowners make is choosing a tree based on looks alone. A tree is a significant, long-term investment, so make your selection carefully with these pointers in mind:

• Native trees are a smart choice; they’re already adapted to local weather and soil, not to mention they’re probably resistant to common area pests or diseases.
• If your soil is naturally dry, sandy, or quick-draining, don’t choose a thirsty tree like a birch or a willow. Keeping it healthy and looking good would only become a major, and perhaps frustrating, project.
• Beware of shedders: Trees that dump leaves, seedpods, nuts, or other tree parts end up being a lot of extra work unless you’re prepared for constant cleanup. Examples include poplar, mulberry, cottonwood, willow, sweetgum, eucalyptus, horse chestnut, and black walnut.
• Consider shade density. If you prefer dappled shade (and hope to grow lawn underneath the tree), choose a tree with a lighter canopy. Examples include ash, birch, honeylocust, and linden. If you want dense shade, go for an oak or maple.
• Have long, hot summers? Good drought-resilient trees include Eastern red cedar, live oak, hickory, Kentucky coffee tree, honeylocust, bur oak, pin oak, gingko, laurel, pines, mesquite, Aleppo pine, blue Atlas cedar, and jacaranda.