For one of our new construction projects in the Memorial Villages we had to remove several mature trees during the demo process. The original plan was to remove 5 trees that were interfering with the new foundation. Then, after deciding to place over head electric and communication power lines in an underground easement (a decision that provided great benefit since it prevented the eyesore of power lines in the backyard and also allowed for the pool to be placed in an ideal position without having to worrying about hanging power lines), we decided to clear an additional 5 trees that blocked the pathway for CenterPoint to install those underground lines.

The local tree preservation ordinance generally requires that for every one mature tree removed, there must be two replanted. There are also requirements for the size of these replacement trees. For this project, we had to purchase and plant 20 trees that were 95 gallons each. This could have easily tripled the clients’ budget for trees. We researched for local tree farms in the region and found a well-established Tree Farm in Brenham, Texas with very reasonable prices. Before making such a large purchase, I wanted to personally see the inventory and decide on the type of tree to compliment the style and design of the home. Thus, I brought the family (who were eager to take a pause from quarantine life on this beautiful morning) and we visited the tree nursery. After getting a tour of the farm, 20 trees (types include Crape Myrtle, Bald Cypress, and Caroline Sapphire Arizona Cypress) have been purchased and scheduled for delivery before Christmas, when the construction will be in the landscaping phase.