Trees, along with the Hardscaping of your property have been called the “bones” of the garden. They are such prominent fixtures in your landscaping and will stand forever, so make sure you are confident that the trees you plant will harmonize with your property. Here are some reasons for using trees in your landscaping.

• As a Focal Point- Maybe you want the tree to be the main attraction to a garden or lawn. Consider its ideal shape. In a garden, for instance, you’ll want a tree that provides little shade so the flowers underneath can flourish. A flowering cherry tree would be ideal for this type of garden.

• To Counterbalance a Building- Trees can be used to soften the contrast between a building and its surroundings making the design more appealing to the eye. Use tall spiky trees such as Italian Cypress for this function.

• Screening- Creating a natural screen with trees can be difficult. Trees require time to grow to maturity. Hedges and fences are great alternatives. Hedges also make great wind screens since they have foliage year round.

• Shade- Consider the spread of the tree when choosing for shade and remember you’ll need open space for that spread. Oak and Chestnut are fine shade trees.

• Color- We love colorful blossoms in the spring and burning red leaves in the fall. Some trees can be colorful in spring and fall like the crabapple.

Now that we realize how to use a tree to compliment landscaping we must remember a few points when choosing a tree and planting it.

• Remember the size of your garden. Huge forest trees are neat, but probably won’t go well with a tiny flower garden on a tiny plot of land.

• Remember that the tree may be tiny now, but how tall will it be in ten or fifteen years? Will it hit the house? Does it have room for its eventual spread?

• Remember that the soil you plant the tree in can influence its rate of growth and how big it will get. Do your research.

• Remember the roots. Root spread can be a problem near homes, outbuildings, sidewalks, driveways. Some trees, like the Weeping Willow and Poplar, have huge root systems. Just keep this in mind when you choose a spot for planting.

Trees, “…will be the ancestors in your garden, standing as a blessing or a curse on those who come after you, depending on how well you choose what to plant.” -Liz Dobbs and Sarah Wood

Remember to choose the tree and its position in your landscaping wisely. That tree will likely be permanent or require much effort to remove later on.

Trees can be marvelous additions to our properties. They make great focal points, give us contrast and color, and provide a back bone for our landscaping. Tell us how and why you chose the “ancestors” of your garden.