Leaf Removal in Omaha, NE
The first Arbor Day celebration took place in Nebraska in 1872. Now, more than 100 years later, Nebraska still has a strong affinity for its trees. Fortunately, many picturesque and colorful trees do quite well in Nebraska's temperate climate. But many species drop their leaves before winter arrives, which means you'll then need to turn your attention to cleaning up the lawn. In addition to creating an eyesore for the neighborhood, keeping a lawn covered with leaves reduces the opportunity for oxygen, moisture, and nutrients to reach the grass and soil underneath. In turn, this can kill the grass or give you more work in the spring. Fallen leaves can also accumulate in your home's gutters, which in turn can cause them to stop working effectively in rain and snow. If you've ever wondered what kinds of trees might grow in your lawn, these are some more common varieties.
Trees That Thrive in Nebraska
Nebraska's climate supports a variety of trees. From evergreens to deciduous species, the Nebraska Forest Service points out some common species that you may have in your yard.
- Ash
- Eastern Arborvitae
- River Birch
- Buckeye
- Northern Catalpa
- Chokecherry
- Kentucky Coffeetree
- Eastern Cottonwood
Ash is one of the most common residential trees in Nebraska. It historically grows in shaded, wooded areas. It produces thick, dense foliage and sheds its leaves in the fall. Ash, however, is prone to infestation from the emerald ash borer. Therefore, it's a good idea to monitor your Ash trees for signs of disease.
Eastern arborvitae is a bright green conifer. It is commonly seen in landscaping across Nebraska. Eastern arborvitae can reach heights of 40 feet depending on the cultivar. Therefore, it is frequently used to form natural screens and barriers along property borders and foundation lines. It can survive in cold temperatures, and it doesn't require high volumes of water.
River birch is a rapidly-growing, medium-size tree. It is commonly found in the Southeast and East Coast in addition to the Midwest. River birch is a picturesque tree with green foliage and salmon-colored bark. Therefore, it is commonly used for landscaping and ornamental purposes in the US. River birch frequently produces flowers in summer, which adds to its appeal even more. Birch trees can reach 140 years of age in the wild, but domesticated species usually only live to about 40.
Buckeye, or the "Ohio Buckeye," is most often associated with Ohio. It is Ohio's state tree and one of its most iconic symbols. However, Buckeye is a hardy species that grows equally well in other locations, too. One of those locations is Nebraska. Buckeye is a deciduous tree that loses its leaves in the fall. In the springtime, it produces picturesque flowers and Buckeye nuts. There are about 19 species in the family, and each has slightly different physical characteristics and growing preferences. Buckeye has a rounded dome shape and grows best in moist soil.
Northern catalpa has several physical elements that make it stand out from the crowd. One is its long seed pods that resemble string beans. This tree also has bright green foliage that emerges in the spring. It is perhaps best known, however, for its large, stunning white flowers that command attention. If you have this tree on your property, you'll be able to distinguish it from the others by its large, heart-shaped leaves.
Chokecherry is commonly used in commercial applications. Its berries, notes the USDA, are frequently used in juices, syrup, preserves, and jelly. But Chokecherry is also a lovely tree to have on your property. It produces thick clusters of white flowers and brilliant red berries. This tree reaches a height of 20-30 feet. It is commonly seen in tree form, but it can take the form of shrubs, too. Chokecherry can grow solo or in groups. In the wild, it is commonly seen in thickets.
Kentucky coffeetree has both ornamental and practical purposes. It is a relatively large tree that grows historically in the Midwest and South. Coffetree's beans are edible if they are roasted. Some people even use them to replace regular coffee beans. The unroasted seeds and pods, however, are toxic. This tree is a member of the pea family.
Eastern cottonwood is Nebraska's state symbol. Therefore, there is a perfect chance that you'll find it in your own yard. Cottonwood is common in the eastern and central parts of the US. Its range extends from Mexico to Canada. Cottonwood is unique for the fact that it separately produces male and female flowers.
Once you've identified the trees in your yard, you'll have a better idea of which ones will drop their leaves and when. That way, you can incorporate leaf removal into your autumn plans. With so much to see and do in Omaha, however, you'll want to leave time for other activities, too.
Omaha's Attractions
Whether you're looking to entertain family or friends, there are many great places to see close to home.
The Durham Museum
This museum is located in a former train station. Although the train is no longer operational, the museum gives visitors a good idea of what life was like when the train was the primary source of transportation and employment. The museum has a combination of permanent and traveling exhibits.
Kenefick Park
Covering over 100 acres, this beautiful park is a popular seasonal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Along with a picturesque park, you'll find a botanical garden that covers over 100 acres. If you need inspiration for your garden too, this is an excellent place to find it. There is also a cafe and gift shop on site.
Removing leaves from your house and yard in the fall can take time, but you can always contact Lawn Love to give you a hand. As the local lawn care experts, we'll make all aspects of your lawn care easier and more enjoyable.
