You can love it or hate it, but Kamloops is hot! It is nice to have some shade trees around your yard to offer some protection from the direct sun. If you are starting a new landscape project or are refreshing your yard you most likely want a shade tree or two. There are some important things to consider when selecting your tree, as it is perhaps the one thing that will remain in your garden for the next 50 years.
Shade trees provide structure to your garden and can be the backbone for future projects and gardens. They provide shelter and protection for wildlife and birds as well as beauty and protection for you.
Here are some things to keep in mind when selecting a tree:
- Height and width, now and when the tree is mature.
- The location of the tree, is it in shade or sun? Consider where you would like the tree placed in the yard
- Is it to provide shade? If so, dappled or heavy?
- Root structure, consider what you will plant underneath as well as the root spread underground. Septic fields can be heavily impacted by roots.
- Flowering trees or non flowering. Again, consider what kind of creatures you would like to attract and share the tree with. This decision is also affected by the location. If the tree is close to a pond then you do not want a tree that sheds a lot in the summer months.
- Water lover or xeriscape. Keep in mind your habits here as well, if you are not a frequent waterer you may want to consider a variety that requires a little less love from you.
- Seasons, consider a variety that will provide you interest throughout the four seasons.
There are a lot of varieties to choose from so when writing this article I thought we should get Shawn, our Nursery Manager’s expert opinion. Shawn suggested starting with your garden style. Consider the style you would like to create and work from there. For a shade garden a Venus Dogwood or a Japanese Maple would be a nice fit. Red Obelisk Beech, Red Fox Katsura or a Parkland Pillar Birch would be a great addition to a narrow garden. If you are looking for a statement piece something that provides lots of shade and coverage as well as years of enjoyment a Variegated Maple or a Variegated Tulip tree would be perfect.
A shade tree is a great addition to your yard or garden, if you are considering one come on it and chat with our nursery staff. We would love to help you select a tree that will fit your needs and bring you some interest and enjoyment.
