5 Tips for designing a beautiful landscape with trees
Landscape design with trees can be tricky. Not only do you have to consider the shape and size of the tree you’re using, but you also have to think about which trees will look best together and how they’ll affect the rest of your yard. Read on for some tips on how to successfully design with trees in mind.
Tips for designing a landscape
Choosing trees and other plants to landscape your yard can seem like an overwhelming prospect, but it’s easier than you think! With the right information, you can create a beautiful space that suits your tastes and lifestyle perfectly. Here are five tips for designing a beautiful landscape with trees.
1) Tree species and type
Here are five considerations you should make when selecting the right tree species and type to create your desired landscape:
- Selecting evergreen or deciduous trees based on environmental factors. Evergreens provide year-round cover and color, while deciduous trees provide seasonal variety.
- Determining the size and shape of your yard, as well as how many trees you want to plant to create the desired look.
- Considering the mature height and width of the tree, where they will be planted about structures like homes and driveways, proximity to utility lines, and any other obstructions in their path.
- Take into account whether your selected species are drought-tolerant or water-needy.
- Making sure that the tree has been tested for resistance to diseases and insects before planting it in your garden or landscaping project.
2) Choosing the right location
The first step to designing your landscape is choosing the right location. A good place to start is by seeing what others have done and asking them about their experience. The location you choose should be in harmony with your lifestyle and needs, as well as complement the architecture of your home. You'll want to take into consideration where sunlight will fall on your property during different times of day and how long it takes for sunlight to reach specific areas at different times of the year. You'll also need to consider whether any obstructions could cause shading or wind-shear, such as high-rises or other buildings.
3) Planting
Plant evergreen trees to create year-round interest. Deciduous trees can be used as well, but they are more appropriate in the winter when they drop leaves and in the fall when they change color. Planting deciduous trees next to evergreens will help cover up bare spots that might otherwise be seen between seasons. Select hardy plants like rhododendrons, azaleas, or hydrangeas that can withstand a little cold weather. Even if you live in an area where frost is rare, you'll need to protect them during periods of extreme cold. Picking plants that tolerate your climate conditions will make it easier for you to care for them.
4) Soil and mulch
Soil and mulch are important when it comes to the health of your plants. Mulch helps prevent weeds from growing, keeps moisture in the soil, and keeps the roots of the plant moist. Soil is made up of sand, clay, and silt. All three have different effects on your soil so it's important to know what you're working with before you start adding any type of soil or mulch. A healthy tree needs at least four inches of water per week; not all soils can hold this much water. The best way to find out if you need to amend your soil is by digging down about six inches and examining the texture. If it's more sand than anything else, chances are that it won't be able to hold enough water for a healthy tree. Clay will hold too much water and may lead to root rot which can kill a tree over time. When tree trimming Phoenix make sure to leave space between trunks to allow for good air circulation. Overcrowding trees have been known to weaken their immune systems making them susceptible to pests and diseases.
5) Caring for your garden
When it comes to caring for your garden, there are many different factors that you need to consider. The type of plants that you choose, the time of year, and the soil conditions will all play a factor in how you care for your plants. Here are five tips to help get you started.
- Plant native species where possible. These plants typically require less maintenance because they grow well in their natural environment without requiring special fertilizers or pesticides. They also provide food and shelter for wildlife!
- Start by making sure the soil is healthy before planting anything. Till up the soil and add compost or manure to make sure that it's enriched with nutrients. You can also buy packaged products at your local gardening center or plant nursery if needed! Once your soil is ready, you can start planting! Make sure to leave space between each plant so that they have plenty of room to grow.
- Don't forget about watering! Watering plants every other day should be sufficient. It may seem like too much work but it's necessary for keeping the soil moist which allows water and airflow through the roots more easily. Not watering enough can lead to wilting leaves, yellowed leaves, and even brown spots on the leaves. If this happens, it means that your plant needs more moisture! Be mindful of changing weather patterns as well overwatering during rainy periods can cause root rot which will kill the entire plant.
- Take care of weeds before they become a problem! Weeds are not only unattractive but they compete with crops for nutrients and water. Pull out any weeds that pop up near your plants (be careful not to damage the roots!) and place them into a container filled with hot water to kill them. Store-bought weed killers can be used as well!
- Lastly, don't forget about deadheading. Deadheading is when you remove any flowers or blooms from your plant once they're finished growing so that it redirects energy back into the foliage and roots instead of continuing to produce seeds.