Planning for All Season Color & Texture

Why do we need flowering trees and shrubs? The foremost reason for most people is the beauty they add to our homes' landscape. Another equally important reason for planting trees and shrubs is to provide a valuable habitat for birds. Finally, there is the environmental importance of plants for the health of the earth and humans. A shady spot can be ten degrees cooler than the surrounding area. Think of shade trees as energy savers in the summer and raking as a free form of exercise in the autumn!

With careful planning a mixed tree and shrub border can be of visual interest 12 months of the year. A variety of sizes, textures and colors carefully laid out will be visually interesting without being busy. Using native plants ensures easy care and the best habitat for birds. A mix of evergreens and deciduous plants ensures winter interest. For example, in the photograph above, gardeners have combined Azaleas, False Cypress, Apple and Cherry trees. In the background is a Wisteria covered arbor. New cultivars being introduced every year supply trees and shrubs suited to smaller yards without needing constant pruning.

When is the best time to plant trees and shrubs? Anytime you can dig a hole is ok. But depending upon availability spring or fall are the usual seasons. Fall is considered the best time by many gardeners because the plants are heading toward dormancy and will be in place for spring rain. Spring is the busiest planting time for the landscape industry because the supply of trees and shrubs is greatest. But, no matter when you plant, water is most important for long-term health and growth. Regular long, slow, deep watering is best.

How can a person achieve the best possible results for their property? There are basically two ways to accomplish your goals.

The first is to do research on your own and make a plan for yourself. A good way to learn about trees and shrubs in the landscape is to visit botanical gardens and estates such as Sonnenberg Gardens (Canandaigua, NY), Longwood Gardens (Kennett Square, PA) or the Brooklyn Botanic Garden (Brooklyn, NY). Also, don’t forget the web. Volumes of valuable information are waiting at your fingertips. Finally, if you love a good book, be sure to check out books such as Dirr's Hardy Trees and Shrubs: An Illustrated Encyclopedia for even more inspiration.

The second way is to enlist an expert. There are a variety of experts available: horticulturists, master gardeners and landscape designers. Some of these professionals will have expertise that may overlap the others. Interviewing several individuals to find one you have a good rapport with and who can fill your needs is the best way to find someone to work with.

Whatever avenue you decide to explore, you likely won't be disappointed with the results. I have yet to hear someone express regret about developing their landscape.  Good gardening all!

Please refer to our Ornamental Trees & Shrubs Archive for additonal articles.

Author Profile:

Sarah Cavanaugh received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Landscape Architecture from Rutgers University. She has over seventeen years of professional experience in all phases of Landscape Architecture and Design with eleven years as sole proprietor of her own landscape design business.

Her areas of expertise include all phases of residential design as well as small commercial projects. Should you wish to contact Sarah, she can be reached at secld@mac.com.