Trees are perhaps the most important element in landscape design as they not only provide a structural framework but also contribute the dimension of height. Beyond that, they bring a range of beautiful textures and colors – with their blossoms, bark, and foliage ¡ª and add a sense of movement as their leaves stir in the wind and cast ever-changing patterns of shadows.
Trees are simply indispensable, and you will probably have a difficult time selecting just a few from the wealth of choices. There are deciduous and evergreen types, dwarfs and giants, and an astounding variety of ornamental features, including fruits, fall foliage color, growth habits, and branch structures. Regardless of what size yard you have, no matter what your taste or style, there is a tree that will work wonders in your garden.
Growing success
A tree, like a child, is for life, so do some homework before you buy.
Buying
Check the label on the tree to make sure that it’s suitable for the location you have in mind, for your soil, and for the available space.
Choose a sturdy, well-shaped tree that’s obviously in good health. If it’s container grown, make sure that the roots are well established but not congested or circling the rootball; ask the garden center to ease it out of the pot so you can check. Bare-root trees are a particularly good value. If possible, inspect the root system through the wrapping- it should be evenly spread, not gnarled or coiled. The most important factor with balled-and-burlapped trees – field-grown trees that have been lifted with soil around the root ball, which is wrapped in burlap -is to check that the root ball hasn’t been allowed to dry out.
Planting
Trees are planted differently than other specimens, in that the planting hole and backfill are never amended. Since a tree’s root system eventually covers an extensive area – much larger than you could ever dig out and improve – it should adjust to the native soil when still young. If you have chosen wisely, the tree will have no problem.
Dig a hole twice as wide as but no deeper than the root ball; pierce the sides of the hole with the shovel tip. Soak bare-root trees in water for at least 24 hours; water container-grown and balled-and-burlapped types just before planting. Set the tree in the hole and remove any wire or fabric wrapping completely. Container-grown trees are set at the same depth as they were in the pot; with bare-root and balled-and-burlapped trees, the soil mark (a dark stain on the trunk) should be level with the ground. Holding the tree steady, backfill with half the soil; water in order to settle the soil and let drain. Add the remaining soil and water in again.
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