Need suggestions for drought resistant low maintenance trees

tstruce · Joined: 12 Oct 2003 Posts: 2 Location: Dallas TX

I am planning to plant trees on my acreage in NE Collin County this fall. I do not currently live on the property so I am looking for drought resistant, low maintenance tree species that will work. The soil is basically black clay with fractured limestone down about 6 feet. The land is basically flat former pasture.

The Ent · Joined: 19 Mar 2003 Posts: 784 Location: ,

Good choices would include Burr Oak, Texas Red Oak, Texas Ash, and Shatung or Caddo Maple.

Bear in mind that the first season or two in the ground, drought tolerant species or not, all trees will need extra water to get established in a new location. If all you cna do is get out and give it a good soaking once a week, that'll do, especially if you plant now.

Tony M · Joined: 31 Mar 2003 Posts: 1087 Location: McKinney,TEXAS

tstruce-
I live in NW Collin County but don't have the visible limestone as you do. However, when we were looking for property in your area the same trees seem to be growing.
Look around as you drive to your property and see what's there. Take a camera if you don't recognize the trees so you can ID them later. Those are the trees that like it there and can survive long term.
I like the choices "The Ent" gave you. I would add Eve's Necklace, Desert Willow, Rusty Blackhaw Viburnum, Possumhaw Holly, Pecan, Live Oak, and Cedar Elm to the candidates. Some of these are large and others grow to about 15-20 feet, which will give you a nice layering effect. Many are also very bird friendly trees because they provide food.
Tony M