As the leaves begin to turn, it’s the perfect time to start your fall garden planning. Selecting the right trees and shrubs is crucial for creating a landscape that will last and thrive. In this guide, we’ll explore how to choose varieties that offer beauty and functionality, with a special focus on privacy trees and evergreen shrubs that can transform your outdoor space into a year-round sanctuary.
The Benefits of Fall Planting
Autumn is an ideal season for planting trees and shrubs, and gives you several advantages:
- Cooler temperatures reduce stress on new plantings
- Increased rainfall helps establish strong root systems
- Plants can focus energy on root growth rather than foliage production
- Less competition from weeds and pests
By planting in fall, you give your new additions a head start for robust growth in the spring. Learn More
Planning Ahead for Spring Bulbs
Now is the perfect time to think about your spring garden and September is the ideal month to contact us about fall bulb planting. Many homeowners don’t realize that bulbs need to be purchased well in advance, with a typical 3-4 week delivery time. By reaching out early, you know that your chosen bulbs will be ready for planting. Late October is when we typically perform installations.
Popular spring-flowering bulbs for Northern Virginia include narcissus (daffodils), tulips, allium, and muscari (grape hyacinth). These vibrant flowers will bring a burst of color to your landscape as winter fades away.
Incorporating Evergreens for Year-Round Interest
Evergreen shrubs are the backbone of any well-designed landscape since they offer structure and color throughout the seasons. When you’re selecting shrubs, consider:
- Texture and form
- Flowering or non-flowering varieties
- Sun and shade requirements
- Soil preferences
Some versatile evergreen shrubs to consider include:
- Boxwood: Classic and easy to shape
- Osmanthus: Fragrant and deer-resistant
- Viburnum: Offers both evergreen and deciduous varieties with beautiful flowers
[IMAGE: A mixed border of evergreen shrubs with varying textures and heights]
Selecting Privacy Trees for Your Landscape
Privacy trees are a great way to create natural boundaries and shield your property from prying eyes. When choosing trees for privacy screening, it’s important to consider several factors to make sure you select the best options for your specific needs and environment:
- Mature height and spread
- Growth rate
- Evergreen vs. deciduous
- Maintenance requirements
- Climate adaptability
Let’s explore some popular privacy tree options for Northern Virginia.
Cryptomeria
Cryptomeria, also known as Japanese Cedar or Sugi, is an excellent choice for privacy screening. This versatile evergreen offers several advantages:
- Height and Spread: Can grow up to 50-60 feet tall and 20-30 feet wide, providing excellent vertical coverage
- Growth Rate: Moderate to fast-growing, adding 1-2 feet per year
- Evergreen: Maintains year-round privacy with soft, feathery foliage
- Low Maintenance: Resistant to most pests and diseases, requiring minimal care
- Adaptability: Tolerates a wide range of soil types and climate conditions
Arborvitae
Arborvitae is a popular choice for privacy screening, offering various cultivars to suit different needs. Some popular options include:
- Green Giant: Fast-growing, can reach 50-60 feet tall and 12-20 feet wide
- Emerald Green: Compact variety, grows 10-15 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide
- Steeplechase: Narrow and upright, reaches 20-30 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide
Arborvitae provides year-round screening with dense, evergreen foliage and is generally low-maintenance.
Holly
Holly is a classic choice that gives you privacy and has ornamental value. There are several varieties to consider:
- Nellie Stevens: Fast-growing, reaches 15-25 feet tall and 8-12 feet wide
- Oakleaf: Unique leaf shape, grows 15-25 feet tall and wide
- American: Native species, can grow 15-30 feet tall and 10-20 feet wide
Holly varieties maintain privacy year-round with glossy, dark green leaves and often produce bright red berries in fall and winter, which add seasonal interest.
Additional Considerations for Privacy Trees
When you design your privacy screen, consider using a mix of these trees along with other plant varieties to create a layered, natural-looking barrier. This approach can give you:
- Varied Textures and Colors: Combining different tree species adds visual interest and depth to your landscape.
- Year-Round Appeal: Mix evergreen and deciduous species for changing seasonal displays while maintaining privacy.
- Enhanced Biodiversity: A diverse planting scheme supports local wildlife and promotes a healthier ecosystem.
Designing for Long-Term Success
When you’re planning your fall garden and selecting trees and shrubs, it’s crucial to think beyond the immediate future. Consider the following tips for long-term success:
- Assess Your Site: Analyze soil conditions, sunlight exposure, and drainage patterns to make sure you choose plants that will thrive in your specific environment.
- Plan for Growth: Anticipate the mature size of trees and shrubs to avoid overcrowding or interference with structures as they grow.
- Create Year-Round Interest: Combine deciduous and evergreen plants to make sure your landscape remains attractive throughout all seasons.
- Consider Maintenance: Select varieties that align with your willingness and ability to maintain them over time.
- Native Species: Incorporate native plants that are well-adapted to local conditions and support local ecosystems.
Planting and Care Tips
Once you’ve selected your trees and shrubs, proper planting and care are essential for their long-term health:
- Watering: Water deeply and regularly during the first growing season to establish strong roots.
- Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of plants, keeping it away from the trunk or stems.
- Pruning: Perform light pruning to remove any damaged branches and shape the plant as needed.
- Winter Protection: Consider using burlap wraps or anti-desiccant sprays for sensitive evergreens in harsh winter climates.
Conclusion
Fall tree and shrub selection is a crucial step in creating a lasting, flourishing landscape. By carefully choosing privacy trees, incorporating evergreens, and planning for long-term growth, you can establish a beautiful and functional outdoor space that enhances your property’s value and your quality of life.
At Lucas & Clark Grounds Company, our experienced landscape designers are ready to help you create a comprehensive plan that caters to your specific needs and site conditions. We offer high-quality plants and trees from reputable nurseries, and provide a diverse selection to meet your preferences and design goals.
Ready to transform your landscape this fall? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards creating your outdoor sanctuary.