How to Plan a Tree Layout in a Backyard

A well-planned tree layout adds value to a backyard, providing long-lived ornamental and functional features and preventing expensive and difficult-to-fix errors. Imposing landscape plants, trees can screen wind, provide privacy and shade, support tree houses and swings, provide a framework for garden designs and add decorative effects with flowers, fruit, foliage and bare winter branches. Select trees according to the growing conditions in your backyard, functional requirements and each tree's final dimensions and ornamental features. To avoid cluttering your gutters and roof with plant debris, site trees at least half the mature canopy width from your home. Grow a variety of tree species to help prevent pest infestations and diseases.

Measuring tape
Graph paper

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the dimensions of your backyard and draw a plan to scale on graph paper, using one square to represent one square foot, or another suitable proportion. Draw utility boxes, meters, utility lines and poles, sheds, ponds and other permanent or desirable features on your plan. Contact your local utility services to find the position of underground lines or drains and draw them on your plan.
- 2
  Observe the daylight patterns in your backyard and note how many hours of direct light each area receives in the course of a day. Assess the soil type, such as sand, clay or loam. Sand soil feels powdery between your fingers, clay forms hard or sticky lumps and loam soil is moist and crumbly. Select trees that suit the growing conditions, regional climate and the trees' intended functions.
- 3
  Draw circles on your plan where your trees will grow, spaced according to their final dimensions. The diameter of each circle should represent the final width of the tree crown. Some overlap is desirable to give a natural effect or provide effective screening or shade.

Scorch-Resistant Red Buckeyes

How Can I Save a Tree Limb That Is Cracked but Still Attached?

Landscaping Trees