Softwood Trees in Ohio
The state of Ohio is known for its miles and miles of forest areas and state parks. According to the Ohio Department of National Resources, Ohio has nine species of softwood and 149 species of hardwood trees that are native to the state. Softwood trees are those trees that release a seed into the atmosphere without the covering shell of a fruit or nut. Many of these trees bear cones, such as pine trees.
False Cypress
False cypress (Chamaecyparis) is a type of softwood tree that can grow in Ohio. Some types of this tree can grow from 30 to 50 feet in height. There are, however, smaller species that remain the size of a shrub. False cypress will grow best in areas that provide full sun (no less than six hours of direct sun) and well-drained soil that is moist and rich. This tree is an evergreen and can vary in color, depending on the specific type.
- The state of Ohio is known for its miles and miles of forest areas and state parks.
- Softwood trees are those trees that release a seed into the atmosphere without the covering shell of a fruit or nut.
Spruce
Spruce trees (Picea) are typically cone shaped and maintain their green color year-round. This type of tree grows best in full sun in areas that provide moist, well-drained soil. They can, however, thrive in the clay soil that is found in much of Ohio. Water your spruce tree during dryer times, especially during the first two years after planting, to keep the soil moist. To maintain an attractive shape to your tree, prune in the early spring. Types of spruce trees include the Norway spruce (reaches 40 to 60 feet in height and 25 to 30 feet wide), the Dwarf Alberta spruce (reaches 10 to 12 feet in height), the Colorado spruce (reaches 30 to 60 feet in height and spreads 10 to 20 feet in width), the white spruce ( reaches 40 to 60 feet in height and 10 to 20 feet in width), the Oriental spruce (reaches 50 to 60 feet in height) and the Serbian spruce (reaches 50 to 60 feet in height and 20 to 25 feet in width).
Pine
Pines (Pinus) are another species of softwood trees that can be found in Ohio. This type of tree grows best in full sun and prefers slightly acidic soil that is well drained. Watering is required for at least the first year after planting. Types of pine trees include the Japanese red pine (reaches 40 to 60 feet in height and width), the Lacebark pine (reaches 30 to 50 feet in height and 20 to 25 feet in width), the Japanese white pine (reaches 25 to 50 feet in height and width), the eastern white pine (reaches 50 to 80 feet in height and 20 to 40 feet in width), the Austrian pine (reaches 50 to 60 feet in height and 20 to 40 feet in width), the Scotch pine (reaches 30 to 60 feet in height and 30 to 40 feet in width) and the Mugo pine (remains dwarf sized).
- Spruce trees (Picea) are typically cone shaped and maintain their green color year-round.
- This type of tree grows best in full sun in areas that provide moist, well-drained soil.
References
Writer Bio
Nicole Brown began writing professionally for Java Joint Media in 2007. She has published two "how-to" books through Atlantic Publishing Group. Brown is a state-tested nursing assistant with two years of experience in the health care field. She graduated from the University of Rio Grande with a Bachelor of Science in communications/public relations in 1999.