Choosing the right Trees for landscaping

Truthfully, you can use any kind of trees for landscaping. Everyone wants something that looks nice. But, why not plant something that serves more than one purpose? Here's a look at some of the multipurpose species.

Fruit-bearing

A fruit-bearing tree will usually flower beautifully in the spring-time, bear fruit in the summer and add color during the fall. Because they lose their leaves in the winter, they can be planted on any side of the house without preventing the sun's warming rays from reaching your home.

Apple, plum, peach and cherry blossoms range from white to brilliant pink in color. As the fruit begins to ripen, you will see a variety of colors. During the fall, you will have orange, yellow or red leaves depending on the variety you choose.

Eating more fruit is good for your health. Having a fruit-bearing tree in your yard makes it easier and less expensive to add these nourishing treats to your daily diet.

For those of you that are butterfly and bird watchers, you will find that you have more to look at. Nothing is more attractive to the creatures than the spring blooms and summer fruit.

Windbreaks

One of the earliest uses of trees for landscaping was to create a windbreak. Depending on where you live, a windbreak might not be something that you need. But, empty wide open spaces and cold winters don't mix. Think about the wind chill last winter and you'll understand what I mean.

In addition to helping keep you warm in the winter, a windbreak serves to protect the other plants around your home by lowering evaporation rates. Less evaporation means less watering.

Evergreens are the best choices to use for windbreaks. You can choose low growing shrubs like boxwoods or fast growing cedars.

Shade

Choosing deciduous trees for landscaping and placing them in the right spots will help keep your house cool in the summer, but won't block out the sun in the winter. It could even help improve the energy efficiency of your home by reducing air conditioner use in the summertime.

CO2 Reduction-O2 Production

Any tree will absorb CO2 and give off O2 or oxygen. Planting one is something that you can do to help fight global warming, while beautifying your home.

Whether you choose deciduous or evergreen, you are doing something good for the planet when you use trees for landscaping. Your friendly neighborhood landscape designer will have more green ideas.