WHat is a Tree?
A large plant with a (singular or multiple) structural trunk that supports branches upward or away from the trunk.
What is the Difference between a tree and a Shrub?
Trees are plants with the highest growth accomplishments and a singular (or up to 3) supporting wood trunk(s) that bear branches laterally a distance above the ground. Some species may "sucker" or grow mini trees along its roots such as Aspens, Apples, or Chokecherry. Pruning these suckers and branches can help maintain that perfect tree shape and help the plant grow to its most productive potential. Allowing "Suckers" to create additional trunks may allow your tree to identify as a Shrub instead!
Shrubs are multi-stemmed plants that can span from less that 1 ft to over 6 ft tall. They tend to bush out in the middle and can be pruned into multiple shapes. You can use shrubs that have a dense structure to create natural borders, fences, or screens.
Vines are plants that grow in a climbing or trailing manner. Sometimes they can give the appearance of having a "Trunk" but should not be self-supporting.
Shrubs are multi-stemmed plants that can span from less that 1 ft to over 6 ft tall. They tend to bush out in the middle and can be pruned into multiple shapes. You can use shrubs that have a dense structure to create natural borders, fences, or screens.
Vines are plants that grow in a climbing or trailing manner. Sometimes they can give the appearance of having a "Trunk" but should not be self-supporting.
What is the difference between Evergreen, Coniferous, & Deciduous?
Evergreens are very hardy plants that maintain their leaves all year long, regardless of temperature. They are never truly dormant.
For example, Spruce and Pines are evergreens as are Barberry and Manzanita.
Coniferous plants bear cones (generally as seeds), needle like leaves, "scale" or miscellaneous shaped leaves, have softer wood, and create Resin. Many are evergreen.
For example, Spruce and Pines are Coniferous as are Junipers and Arborvitae.
Deciduous plants are your common leafy plants that loose their leaves every year during the colder seasons. They consistently follow the seasons and are dormant during the winter months to conserve energy.
For example, Aspens, oaks, Elms, and all fruit trees are deciduous.
For example, Spruce and Pines are evergreens as are Barberry and Manzanita.
Coniferous plants bear cones (generally as seeds), needle like leaves, "scale" or miscellaneous shaped leaves, have softer wood, and create Resin. Many are evergreen.
For example, Spruce and Pines are Coniferous as are Junipers and Arborvitae.
Deciduous plants are your common leafy plants that loose their leaves every year during the colder seasons. They consistently follow the seasons and are dormant during the winter months to conserve energy.
For example, Aspens, oaks, Elms, and all fruit trees are deciduous.
What is a Shade Tree?
The language surrounding shade can be difficult. When shopping for trees, look at information about each plant's sunlight requirement, their general growth habits, and their general mature size. This can help you determine if it is a shade loving tree or a shade producing tree.
Most Crabapples have a habit that many call the "Umbrella" shape, and while these trees to create a wonderful umbrella of shade, they do not get tall enough for everyone to comfortably stand under.
Most Crabapples have a habit that many call the "Umbrella" shape, and while these trees to create a wonderful umbrella of shade, they do not get tall enough for everyone to comfortably stand under.
HOw To...
Check out our Information Section of the website to learn more about Gardening in the Southwest.
Learn about getting How to Get Started, How to Amend or plant in your Soil, or Tips for Planting!
Learn about getting How to Get Started, How to Amend or plant in your Soil, or Tips for Planting!
Multi Stemmed TreesFruiting |
Shade Producing TreesOrnamental |
Evergreen TreesXeric Trees |
Not Sure What To Plant?
Purchase one of our Plant Guides! We have a Shrub and Tree guide or an Annual and Perennial Guide ($4.95). These magazines feature full-sized images of plants specifically for the Rocky Mountain region. *please note that the plants listed in these guides DO NOT suggest that we have them in stock or regularly carry them* |