Tulsa’s neighborhoods and green spaces are home to a wide variety of trees that add beauty, shade, and value to residential and commercial properties. At Hickman Trees, we specialize in caring for these local species. Below are 10 of the most common trees in Tulsa—with expert care tips and links to authoritative resources for each one.

1. Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)

Care Tips:

  • Prune in late spring after blooming.
  • Prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
  • Monitor for canker and verticillium wilt.

2. Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana)

Care Tips:

  • Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance.
  • Avoid over-pruning; remove only dead or diseased limbs.
  • Keep away from apple species to prevent cedar-apple rust.

3. Southern Live Oak (Quercus virginiana)

Care Tips:

  • Deep water during droughts.
  • Prune during winter to promote structure and remove deadwood.
  • Mulch to maintain soil temperature and reduce competition.

4. Bradford Pear (Pyrus calleryana)

Care Tips:

  • Known for weak branch structure—prune for safety.
  • Avoid topping; trim selectively to maintain shape.
  • Regular inspections help prevent splitting during storms.

5. Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum)

Care Tips:

  • Thrives in wet soil but adapts to drier conditions.
  • Prune in late winter.
  • Inspect for bagworms and rust fungus.

6. Pecan Tree (Carya illinoinensis)

Care Tips:

  • Requires deep watering, especially in summer.
  • Apply nitrogen-based fertilizer in early spring.
  • Watch for scab and aphid infestations.

7. Shumard Oak (Quercus shumardii)

Care Tips:

  • Mulch around the root zone.
  • Prune during dormancy in late winter.
  • Tolerates poor soil and urban pollution.

8. Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum)

Care Tips:

  • Needs consistent moisture.
  • Prune in summer to reduce sap bleeding.
  • Susceptible to wilt and borers—inspect annually.

9. American Elm (Disease-Resistant Varieties) (Ulmus americana)

Care Tips:

  • Use cultivars resistant to Dutch elm disease.
  • Prune in late fall or winter only.
  • Maintain good airflow to reduce fungal threats.

10. River Birch (Betula nigra)

Care Tips:

  • Water generously in hot weather.
  • Avoid heavy pruning to prevent stress.
  • Check for bronze birch borer.

Why Local Tree Care Matters

Tulsa's extreme seasons can cause stress on even the hardiest tree species. Droughts, freezes, and storms make seasonal care and trimming essential for long-term tree health and safety.
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