by Carol L.
(Little Falls, NJ)
Fast Growing Shade Trees
Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to A Question.
by ann
(tyler, texas)
I have a sunny front yard. I would like to get some shade on the foundation beds. How close can you plant a tree in front of the house and is it ok for it to shield some of the house?
ANSWER
Hi Ann,
What I like to do in this situation is determine the circumference (canopy width) of the tree at its mature size. I then place it halfway of this distance away from the house.
For example, if you were to use a Red Maple 'October Glory', the spread at maturity is 25' to 35' wide. I would place it about 15' away from the house. That way, 15' (I took the average) will grow away from the house and 15' towards it. If a bit of the tree extends over the house, that's ok.
You can see where your sun comes from to help you determine if this will shade your foundation plants. I like to place trees at house corners (although a smaller, ornamental tree like a Dogwood works better in these locations). You can also place a shade tree in the lawn, perhaps midway between your front door and the house corner. You can also use a few trees, placed in triangular positioning if your yard is large enough.
Not only do shade trees (and ornamental trees) provide shade, but the also provide a sense of scale which enhances the landscape design.
Susan
Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to A Question.
"Susan, what a pleasure it was to work with you. You made me feel like I was your only client - responding late at night and always so quickly! Your design is amazing and we only hope we can do justice to it when we plant . You have such fantastic ideas and you are so open to suggestions and changes. Loved working with you - now if you could only come to Canada and plant it !!! "
Helen, Ontario-Canada
If you enjoyed this page, please share it!