When You Plant Trees, Remember Someday They Will Grow Up
submitted: Mar 29th 2008 |
by: Admin |
Total views: 237 |
Word Count: 469 |
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When you think of gardening, you might not immediately think about planting trees. But it's not a bad idea to include them in your garden design. Trees are an excellent way to add color, texture and beauty to your landscaping and garden area. They make your home a little "greener" by providing shade and wind protection, as well as keeping the surrounding air cleaner. Trees are also a perfect gathering place for outdoor social activities.
Almost all trees are really small when you buy them, so you have to know what your chosen tree will be like when it matures. How tall will it become? How far will the limbs spread out when it matures?
When you're deciding on a variety of tree, you should know that a tree's spread refers to the total width of the tree at maturity. For example, a spread of 17 feet means that the tree will be about 17 feet across at it's widest point. Not only is this an important number when you're planning for small or crowded spaces, you also need to know how this impacts your total landscape design.
Putting a tree in the wrong place could be dangerous later on. A variety that might look perfect when young could cause problems and headaches after a few years. One common concern is overhead power lines. If there's anything you can count on in this world, it's this: plant a tree under a power line and you'll be dealing with the problems this causes for years.
Your tree's size and shape a maturity will be the primary factors in your decision on where that tree's location. If you're placing a tree under overhead obstacles, make sure that it will still fit there in a few years. Think about where trees can do double duty for you. For example, planting trees on the west side of your home will shield it from the harsh summer sun and save you cooling costs.
This doesn't mean that areas around utility lines have to be dead zones. Find smaller trees or dwarf varieties that can be planted in these locations without fear of future problems.
It's also a good idea to coordinate the coloring of the tree with other parts of your landscape. Trees go through different stages year round. Avoid clashing colors by being fully informed about how your tree will look in different seasons.
Did you realize that barks sometimes change colors just like leaves? Take this into account as well. Will the overall look of the tree go well with other elements in your landscape?
If you take the time and effort to learn about different varieties of trees, take into account their size and shape at maturity, and coordinate colors and textures, you will be well-pleased with the overall look of your landscape for years to come.
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