Building a cabin in the forest is a dream for many people, and trees are often a deciding factor before closing the deal on a property.

The relationship between humans and trees is as old as time. Trees provide shade and privacy and have a calming effect on our nervous systems. It’s why many of us naturally gravitate toward forested landscapes.

Practically speaking, trees can add value to your home in several ways. Research shows that having a large tree in the yard increases a home’s value by 3% to 15%, while planting a tree on the west side of your home can reduce your energy bills by 3% after around 5 years.

Managing and caring for trees on your property requires thoughtful planning and ongoing care. Trees bring big benefits, but they can also present some hazards. Ahead we offer practical cabin landscaping tips to help you protect the forest nature landscape as well as your home. Think of it as a partnership between you and the trees.

Design around trees.

It’s common for architects, builders, and general contractors to build around mature trees on a property. Some trees, including certain oak species, are protected in some areas. Be sure to check with local authorities before removing or trimming trees.

Mature trees can dramatically increase property value. They also provide homes for wildlife while giving you shade and privacy. Consider consulting with an arborist or landscape designer during the planning phase to help map out a construction plan that minimizes damage to the roots and canopies of trees on your property.

Protect trees with barriers.

Physical barriers, such as fencing, can help protect your trees during construction and everyday activities. Fencing can prevent roots from being compacted by vehicles and heavy equipment.

Compacted soil reduces the air exchange to the roots and can severely weaken a tree. Clearly marked barriers remind everyone to keep a safe distance and help preserve the vital root zone.

Find the right tree trimmers.

Tree trimming is an essential part of tree maintenance on your property, but it’s also a largely unregulated industry. This means almost anyone can offer tree trimming services, regardless of their experience or qualifications.

To prevent potential damage to your trees, don’t wait for an emergency to find a tree trimmer. Research tree trimming companies ahead of time and check their credentials and reviews. A qualified tree trimming company will have an arborist on their team who can educate you on how to care for trees and maintain optimal soil conditions.

Prune trees regularly.

Regular pruning is essential not only for the health of your trees but also for the safety of your home. Overhanging branches can pose risks during storms and increase the likelihood of damage to your property.

Ensure that trees near your home are pruned to prevent branches from overhanging the roof. Additionally, creating a defensible space around your home by trimming trees can help reduce the fire hazard, particularly in fire-prone areas.

Remove dead trees near your home.

Dead and fallen trees provide habitat and foraging opportunities for wildlife, but they can pose significant risks when located near homes. If a tree on your property dies, assess its location in relation to your home and other structures.

If it’s close enough to pose a risk in the event of falling or catching fire, it should be removed promptly. In more isolated areas of your property, where the fall of a tree would not impact safety or structures, you might consider leaving it standing to support local ecosystems.

Consider mulching around trees.

Mulching around the base of trees in your yard can help retain soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce the growth of weeds, which can compete with trees for nutrients.

However, it’s important to apply mulch correctly. Avoid piling mulch against the tree trunk, which can lead to moisture retention against the bark and potentially cause rot or fungal diseases. A proper mulch ring can extend up to the drip line of the tree branches and is typically 2-4 inches deep. Read about the pros and cons of using mulch around trees.

By taking these proactive steps, you can enjoy the benefits of having healthy, beautiful trees on your property while minimizing potential risks.

Perform regular health checks.

Regularly inspect your trees for signs of stress, disease, or pest infestation. Early detection is key to managing potential issues before they become severe.

Look for changes in leaf color, premature leaf drop, or visible damage to the bark and branches. Consulting with an arborist for an annual health check can provide a professional assessment and advice on necessary treatments or care to keep your trees in optimal health.

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If you’re ready to build your dream log cabin home, eLoghomes is your trusted partner. We offer a huge selection of beautifully designed log cabin kits and optional construction services to ensure a hassle-free home build. Choose from more than 200 fully customizable home models, ranging from 400 to 4,000+ square feet.

eLoghomes leads the way in energy-efficient log home design, and all the homes in our catalog have been expertly designed and engineered by master architects. Take a virtual tour of some of our most popular models, then search our portfolio to find your perfect log cabin floor plan.