Spring is a big season for planting new trees, shrubs, and other landscape plants. In almost all of us, there’s an urge to plant as the days get warmer and longer in the spring.

It’s tempting to just add a few trees or shrubs in spots you think they would look nice. Remember, a landscape’s real success is determined by how well it fits your property while meeting your long-term personal and financial goals.

The very best way to handle landscape planting is to start with an overall plan. Having a good plan doesn’t mean you have to install the whole landscape at one time. You can spread the work out over several years, but each addition should fit neatly into the overall scheme.

BELOW ARE SEVERAL ITEMS AN EFFECTIVE LANDSCAPE DESIGN SHOULD TAKE INTO ACCOUNT:

• Mature size of the plants: you should always allow for the growth of the tree or shrub so that windows, walks, and drives are not blocked as the landscape matures.

• Privacy for you in your yard: screening of neighboring properties can be done with plant selection and location.

• Shade and temperature control: selection and placement of trees and shrubs will have a big impact on utility costs and enjoyment of your property over the years.

• Maintenance costs: there are both high and low maintenance landscapes.

Your use of the property and commitment to ongoing care should be considered.

Your landscape has a big impact on the long-term value and day-to-day enjoyment of your home. It’s worth the small amount of time required to plan into the future when you decide it’s time to add trees, shrubs, or planting beds.

If you need assistance with or ideas for “putting down new roots” this spring, please give us a call.