How to Landscape with Tree Groupings

Trees provide shade and aesthetic appeal and bring human scale to the urban environment. They serve as architectural elements in the landscape; tree canopies enclose the overhead plane and tree trunks are similar to walls, defining the boundaries of the space. Most residential properties only have room for a few trees. Grouping trees in clusters is effective for framing, background and shade. Choose species appropriate for the local climate as well as the desired effect.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Limit the number of tree species to two or three. Allow adequate space for trees at maturity.

   • 2

     Plant trees in groups of odd numbers, such as three, five and seven. Group same species together for screening or buffers.

   • 3

     Locate trees with showy foliage, flowers or fruit strategically. Plant as contrasting specimens in tree clusters.

   • 4

     Frame views with tree groupings. Plant for shade near the house but don't block windows. Plant trees at least 5 feet from paved surfaces.