As mentioned earlier, trees are part of the backbone of a garden.
They can serve as a focal point, or as a source of shade for plantings below, they can frame a garden, or establish the overall feel of the landscape.
Not only do trees enhance a landscape, but they also serve as homes to native birds and animals in our ecosystem.
Trees create oxygen and help to reduce pollution in the environment.
Considerations To Make Before
Picking a Tree
Primary trees are usually the larger more prominent trees for the yard. These are usually placed by the builder at the time of construction.
Secondary, or supplemental trees are used to add additional focal points and symmetry to the landscape.
In deciding on which trees to landscape a yard with, it’s very important to make some considerations on what you’re going to do. As trees are costly, finding the most suitable area for both the tree and design of the landscape takes top priority.
The slow growth of trees needs to be addressed as well, and also the size at maturity.
Over planting trees too close together can result in awkward growth and shape. Planting several shade trees can greatly limit what plants will be able to thrive beneath the shade.
Depending on the nature of the tree, specific areas fare better for certain trees. Deciduous trees are best planted on the east or south side, so that they can provide shade during the summer months, yet also allow the sun to warm the home in winter months.
In addition, the location of trees should not hide the home, but rather frame it.
Trees should be planted an ample distance away from the house for two main reasons:
- Roots of trees can easily damage pipework creating costly repairs in the future.
- A tree planted too close to a house also puts the house at risk of roof damage due to growing and maturing limbs.
In most cases, hiring a professional to plant the tree is recommended, unless the trees are very young and small.
Proper maintenance is essential at all life stages of the tree. Fertilization, watering and pruning improve growth and health of the tree, as well as pest inspection and management. Vines and other climbing plant species should also be properly maintained and pruned to prevent any damage to the tree as it grows.
Some suggested trees for our area here in Houston, Texas are:
- Arizona ash
- Bottlebrush
- Camphor
- Chinaberry
- Crape myrtle
- Elm
- Eucalyptus
- Holly
- Magnolia
- Maple
- Mimosa
- Oaks
- Pecan
- Pear
- Pine
- Sycamore
- Sweet Gum
These are just a few of the many that will thrive in the Houston area.
