Choosing the Right Ornamental Trees for Your Landscape
Ornamental trees are more than just shade providers; they add beauty, character, and value to your property. But with so many stunning varieties available, selecting the perfect tree for your landscape can feel overwhelming. Fear not! This guide will help you make an informed decision.
- Consider Your Space
- Size Matters: Research the mature height and spread of each tree you’re considering. Will it fit comfortably in your yard without overcrowding structures or other plants?
- Sunlight Exposure: Determine how much sunlight your yard receives throughout the day. Select trees that thrive in your specific sun conditions.
- Current Landscaping: New shade introduced by adding in a new tree may hinder some of your more sun loving plants. Consider spots that need more shade.
- Assess Your Soil and Climate
- Soil Type: Different trees have varying soil preferences. Check the planting site to see what type of soil (Sand, clay, loam, etc.) you have.
- Climate: Consider your region’s climate. Reference the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map to see what zone you are in. Here in southeastern Wisconsin, we are primarily in zone 5b.
- Wind: Some trees may benefit from being planted in a more sheltered area to protect it from our harsh winter winds. Pay attention to the wind patterns in your area, and where it primarily blows through your property.
- Define Your Aesthetic Goals
- Flowering Trees: Many ornamentals produce beautiful flowers that will add beauty to even the darkest corners of your yard. Most flowering trees bloom in early to mid-spring including, but not limited to, crabapples, ornamental pears, redbuds, and serviceberries. The white fringe tree flowers early summer and the hydrangea tree will flower mid-summer.
- Fall Color: Maybe fall color is more important than flowers. If you’re looking for stunning autumn foliage, hornbeams are a great medium stature tree with gorgeous fall color. Some plants, like the hydrangea tree or ornamental pear, offer beautiful blooms and a vibrant fall color.
- Year-Round Interest: Evergreen trees like pines, junipers, and spruces provide year-round structure, screening, and visual appeal. Plants with colorful twigs can also add winter interest. Some willows, like our Niobe willow, have beautiful golden branches that stick out in the winter months. The dwarf Korean lilac tree can be considered by some to have year-round interest. It has beautiful fragrant flowers in spring, glossy leaves during the summer, stunning marron fall color, and speckled bark that can be enjoyed all year.
- Unique Features: Consider trees with weeping branches, unusual bark textures, or fragrant flowers to add a unique touch to your landscape. Birches have nodding branches and an interesting bark texture. The American hornbeam (also known as muscle wood) has a muscle like texture on the trunk, with smooth grey bark.
- Don’t Forget Local Considerations
- Utility Lines: Avoid planting large trees near overhead power lines.
- Building Codes: Check local regulations regarding tree planting distances from structures.
- Wildlife: Consider trees that provide food and shelter for local wildlife, such as birds and butterflies.
By carefully considering these factors, you can select the perfect ornamental tree to enhance your landscape for years to come. Stop in at our sales yard to see what we have for your landscape. Our sales team is determined to help you pick the right plant for the right spot. Have questions before coming in? Give us a call or message us on Facebook!
