“The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.” — Modern Proverb
Even as a landscape architect, I have to admit — I missed the mark on this one.
When my family moved into our historic home in 2017, we had a toddler in tow and another baby on the way. Between growing a business, raising two kids, and prioritizing critical interior updates, the landscape understandably took a back seat. We did what we could: a few small upgrades, a backyard renovation, and some hardscaping. But when it came to long-term elements — particularly trees — we waited.
Now, seven years later, we’re finally planting the shade trees we should’ve planted the day we moved in. And it shows. Where there could be 20-foot canopies shaping light and sheltering spaces, we’re starting from scratch with 10-foot saplings.
As a design professional, it’s a humbling reminder: every year you delay planting a tree is a year of shade, energy savings, and landscape maturity you’ll never get back.
Why Trees Matter — Beyond the Obvious
At Io LandArch, we don’t think of trees as ornamental add-ons. Trees are foundational elements of a high-performing landscape — whether you’re working on a single-family home, a commercial development, a schoolyard, or a city park.
Trees Shape Space & Light
They define outdoor rooms, provide essential shade, and create dynamic, filtered light conditions. At my own home, we face direct morning glare in the east and intense heat from the west — and because we waited on trees, we’ve had to rely on less elegant solutions like window coverings or high energy use. A strategically placed tree could have solved that years ago.
At the Lippincott Residence, two trees in the front help to shape light inside the house as well as the outdoor space in the front lawn.
Trees Influence Climate & Comfort
Trees play a critical role in microclimate control. In Utah’s arid environment, well-placed trees can significantly reduce building heat gain, protect against wind exposure, and cool surrounding areas through evapotranspiration. For homes and public spaces alike, this translates to lower energy costs, more usable outdoor areas, and improved thermal comfort — especially important in our climate where 100+ degree days are becoming more common.
As they mature, the trees at Promise Park in South Salt Lake City are providing shade and climate comfort.
Trees Add Value — Ecologically, Socially & Economically
From stormwater management and habitat creation to property value and user experience, trees deliver long-term returns. But their impact doesn’t begin the day they’re planted — it begins years later, when their roots are established and their canopy is mature. That’s why every year of delay has compounding consequences.
Mature trees at the Historic Wattis House provide a canopy and define the home’s landscape.
It’s Not Too Late — But Don’t Wait Longer
Whether you’re a homeowner designing your forever yard, a contractor developing a property, or a city planner shaping public space — the same truth applies: plant the trees as early as possible.
We understand that future uncertainty — building additions, site circulation, underground utilities — can make it hard to commit. But with the right planning, trees can be sited in ways that accommodate long-term growth and flexibility. Waiting until every detail is finalized often means missing the window for maximum impact.
Plan Smart, Plant Early
At Io LandArch, we help clients at all scales develop high-level landscape frameworks — identifying opportunities for early tree placement that align with future phases. Whether you’re still in design development or reimagining an existing site, we can help you understand where trees make the biggest difference and how to position them for success.
Our planning process considers:
- Solar orientation and building exposure
- Use areas and spatial hierarchy
- Future structures, grading, and circulation
- Tree growth rates and species selection
- Maintenance access and long-term viability
The goal? To give you the confidence to plant trees now — knowing they’ll serve your project well for decades to come.
Final Thought: Make This the Year You Plant
Trees take time to grow. But they also take time to plan, establish, and integrate into the life of a site. So whether you’re just beginning your project or have already been in place for years — don’t let another season pass by.
Plant the trees now. Your future self, your clients, your city — and your electric bill — will thank you.
A tree we planted in our backyard five years ago, right after planting.
A tree we planted in our backyard five years after planting.
