Five iowa trees for a colorful autumn

Many people would agree that fall is the best season. Summer is too hot while winter is too cold. Spring gives us a fresh vibe since new sprouts are growing. But for most, nothing beats the grandeur of leaves changing their colors.
​
Autumn trees are magical that many people will drive a long way to see them. But you don't have to drive anywhere to enjoy the beauty of trees because there are local Iowa trees that you can add to your landscape for a more captivating view. 

Blackgum or Black Tupelo (Nyssa Sylvatica)

Blackgums are very easy to grow, and they can be considerable. They have simple leaves that can turn from green to a vibrant scarlet red in autumn. They can grow well in moist lands throughout Cedar Rapids, IA. 

---

Common Dogwood (Cornus Florida)

This tree is also famous for its beautiful spring blooms, but it can be even more amazing in fall. The leaves change to different shades of red, orange, and purple. They don't grow very which makes them ideal for smaller landscape spaces. 

---

Freeman Maple (Acer X Freemanii)

This magnificent tree is a hybrid of two local trees in Iowa, silver maple and red maple trees. It has the shape of a pyramidal crown and can grow as much as 40-60 feet. The leaves of this tree magically turn into deep burgundy in fall. 

---

Common Serviceberry (Amelanchier Arborea)

If you prefer a small tree that is not hard to maintain, you should go for common serviceberry. This multi-branched tree grows up to 15-25 feet and is common in Iowa woodlands. They can be a great addition to your yard because it produces fruits that you can eat during summer and yields white flowers in spring. Ultimately, its leaves change to a combination of yellow, orange, and red in autumn. 

---

Scarlet Oak (Quercus Coccinea)

Scarlet oaks are typically found in the hilly lands of Eastern Iowa. This oak can grow fast and can become as tall as 120 feet upon maturity. During autumn, its leaves turn into a beautiful shade of red. Pro tip: plant this tree in an area where it can grow to its full size and make sure the soil is well-drained and not moist. It yields acorns twice a year which serves as food for much wildlife. 

---

Plant the Tree in the Right Place

If you want your tree to look amazing fall, the secret is to plant in an area where it can have access to the direct sun. Also, make sure that you choose the appropriate size of the tree that will fit your landscape. Keep your trees healthy because if they are under stress, they will not produce vibrant colored-leaves in fall. Provide them with additional water supply during summer to help them survive the scorching hot season.

You should ask help from professionals if you don't know how to plant these trees for best results. You can plant more than one type of these trees in your yard, and you will see how stunning they can look in autumn. 

Call Cedar Rapids Tree Service for information about other tree species that provide vivid autumn colors.