Trees Backyard Ecosystems

Shapes of Trees Knowing the shape of a tree can be helpful when planting and designing your landscape Being able to correctly identify a tree shape can help you identify the type of tree that is already in your yard. When choosing trees to plant in your yard, it’s important to pick ones whose shape fits in with your overall design. For example, if you want something tall and thin, you’ll be much more successful if you choose a tree that naturally grows in a tall columnar shape, rather than trying to keep a wide, sprawling tree pruned into submission. Since every tree is different, naming the shapes is something less than an exact science, but in general they tend to fall into categories.

Columnar Shaped Trees Very tall and thin with upright branches. Vertical shape adds height. Good addition to landscape without taking up too much space.

Columnar Shaped Trees (cont.) Leyland Cypress

Pyramidal or Conical Shaped Trees Wider at the bottom with a main center trunk Horizontal branches Branches can start at ground level or higher up the trunk. Conical shaped are similar, but more slender Very large

Pyramidal or Conical Shaped Trees (cont.) Colorado Spruce Trees

Vase Shaped Trees A central trunk that branches into an upright, arching shape that is widest at the top. Perfect for walkways in your landscape Offer shade and headroom

Vase Shaped Tree Crape Myrtle

Round or Oval Shaped Trees Central strong trunk that branches into a dense round or oval shaped crown Dense foliage Lots of shade

Round or Oval Shaped Tree Sugar Maple Tree

Spreading or Open Shaped Trees Open and sometimes irregular shaped Sometimes wider than they are tall Some are taller while some are shorter Make dappled shade and great for softening buildings

Spreading or Open Shaped Tree Dogwood

Weeping Shaped Trees Flexible and long branches that hang down and may touch the ground. Sometimes irregular and dramatically shaped. Not great near walkways or streets

Weeping Shaped Trees (cont.) Weeping Willow Tree

Umbrella Shaped Tree Fairly high branches that spread wide. If branches are high enough, good for sitting areas or patios

Umbrella Shaped Tree (cont.) Japanese Maple

Other things to consider: Cost of maintenance of trees Tree trimming Tree removal if needed Fertilization Insect control Tree Injections Where to plant your tree is important!

Placement of Trees Understand your root system of your tree! If you plant your tree to close to your house it could cause damage eventually. Foundation of the home Basement walls

Roots Some tree roots can pop up above the ground. Causing damage to these roots could cause damage to the tree. Knowing your tree roots is important. Shallow roots are more prone to drought and damage, but they will grow faster.