Why Proper Tree and Shrub Placement Is Important Early On in the Landscape Design Process in Ann Arbor, MI
Trees and shrubs may not be the first aspects of the Ann Arbor, MI, landscape upgrade you’re considering, but they do serve important functions. Here are the reasons why proper tree and shrub placement are essential to an exceptional landscape design.
Benefits of Trees
While trees look lovely and will add a unique vertical element to your landscape design, it can be crucial to include them in the early design phase as they can be carefully selected to complement your outdoor living spaces perfectly.
The proper placement of trees within the overall landscape design can influence other choices you might make for landscape features. Trees placed in a specific area can act as a windbreak to keep the harshest winds from whipping through your backyard. You will want the cooling breeze in the summer, but in winter, you will likely want some trees to shield your plants from harsh winds that can burn them.
Trees also offer shade on hot days, of course. You have likely sat beneath the shade of a stately oak tree to enjoy the cooler temperatures it offers. While having some traditional oak and maple trees can be a must in the landscape design, you certainly don’t want their leaves to make a mess in the nearby pool. Placing them in an area where they will lend shade as they grow but won’t constantly drop leaves on the patio or in the pool is important.
Benefits of Shrubs
Similar to trees, the early placement of shrubs in the landscape design can serve multiple functions and provide significant benefits.
Shrubs placed along the boundary of your property can act as a marker for your property lines. They can be an excellent alternative to a fence if you don’t care for fencing. Boxwoods and other evergreen shrubs grow to a proper height to offer screening into your yard from the nearby neighbors.
Shrubs can act as a noise reducer when placed in the proper intervals. If you live on a bustling street, a hedge of shrubs can reduce the amount of road noise and pollution you experience.
Shrubs can also aid a slope in the yard by stopping the water from rushing in a straight line down the hill. The right shrub selection can add beauty and also help to minimize erosion.
Trees and Shrubs Define Spaces
Trees and shrubs define space within your landscape design. Branches of trees that spread over a walkway can form a ceiling of sorts, while in another space trees can create a screen for an outdoor fire pit to increase the privacy there.
Trees and Shrubs Frame Views
When your home is near a gorgeous body of water or sits at the base of majestic mountains, your landscape designer can use trees and shrubs to frame those dazzling views. Placed in strategic spots, the trees and shrubs can direct your eyes to the amazing views in an efficient way.
Trees and Shrubs Conserve Energy
When they are placed in the path of the sun’s rays, trees and shrubs can block the hot summer sun to keep your home cooler, while in winter, trees can block the harsh winds to preserve the integrity of the landscape. In the winter, keeping large trees out of the sun’s direction can allow the warmth to help your home stay more comfortable.
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