Need inspiration or an example of an established large trees and shrubs prior to selection? Tour our landscapes and take the Tree Tour around our property! Most Trees will be in Bloom SOON!
Trees and Shrubs can be a big investment for your landscape, and it can be an overwhelming decision. When planning a large feature create a Wishlist so that we can show you a manageable list of options. We have acres of trees and shrubs, with different species, benefits, and prices to fit your purchasing needs!
The difference between Trees & Shrubs With large installations it is important to remember the primary difference in these concepts because patience and pruning can be big factors. Some plants have a naturally dense woody structure that can provide windbreaks, hedges, natural screens or create height in your landscape. Other varieties, for example the Hot Wings Maple, have large bases that make them capable of appearing as a large shrub, a multi stemmed tree, or as a single stemmed tree. Another example is a Chokecherry, which have the tendency to create multiple stems and occasionally spread, but with enough pruning and time they can create beautiful umbrella shaped trees. Most plants will require pruning and general maintenance, but you can create a unique look with some creative pruning.
Why does this make a difference? Knowing the difference between Trees and Shrubs can help you with multiple factors in your decision-making process. First, this can really help create a diverse list of options you may not have considered. Second, this can all impact your additional costs and help you make the best purchase for your budget. Finally, Shrubs and Trees are in relatively the same area of the nursery and blend together and we want to make sure you can find all the available examples and products with ease.
What additional costs should I expect? Trees and Shrubs require a decent amount of water, especially during establishment, and you should consider how much you are willing to water in advance. We have many xeric trees and shrubs that will require less water after establishment, but no tree or shrub will be healthy without consistent water supply throughout its life. Fruit trees and fast-growing trees like a bit more water than others to achieve their quotas for growth and produce. Based on your soil, species selection, and future goals you may also require soil amendment, fertilizer, and mulch. You can save a bit of money on your initial purchase by purchasing a smaller tree, which can be found on the shrub mat just east of our Container Tree Rails including 1 gallon Aspen Trees. Young trees like these may require extra patience and protection for a few more years but like most things, they grow up fast!
What are my Southwest options? When you open yourself up to the possibilities of shrubs, options become numerous! Check out the following Wishlist flow- chart to see some of your options. This is also not a complete list of all the options we have available, but some could be on sale! Check out our gorgeous Serviceberries, Silverleaf Buffalo Berries, Currants, and More!