Landscaping around trees is tricky, thanks to their extensive root systems. It’s easy to damage these delicate networks and harm the tree. Fortunately, if you understand the dangers, you can work around them.   

 Here the team at New Life Rockeries share their best do’s and don’ts for landscaping around large trees. 

Landscaping Around Trees Ideas: The Do’s of Landscaping Around Trees

 There are several exciting options for landscaping borders around trees. 

Calming Cohesive Garden

There’s nothing more relaxing than spending an afternoon in the shade of a beautiful tree. Turn this space into a charming feature by adding a bench or chair. Then, cordon the area off with river rock landscaping around trees with locally sourced rocks. 

A Sandstone Cobble Border

Landscaping around trees with rocks is a simple way to accent trees beautifully. A sandstone border takes landscaping around trees with stone to the next level because of its honeyed tones. The cobble border is ideal for those with little time for gardening as it’ll choke out weeds. 

 Leave a space of around 10 inches between the trunk and stones to allow for growth. 

Low Stacked Stone Raised Bed

If you find a cobble border a little too formal, a stone raised bed is one of the alternative ideas for landscaping around trees. Instead of using uniform pieces of sandstone, you use locally sourced rock. 

Create a small ring around the tree by piling each stone on top of the other. You’ll achieve a rustic, natural look. Be sure to use a landscaping fabric under the rock so that the ground can still absorb water. 

Underplants

Creating a grove at the foot of a tree is a gorgeous feature. You must carefully research which plants best suit landscaping ideas around trees with underplanting. The plants will grow in relatively shady conditions, so ferns, hostas, and coral bells may be good options. 

Steel Planter Edging 

Steel planter edging is the contemporary alternative to landscaping around trees with bricks. As the steel band border ages and oxidizes, it creates a striking design. 

Don’ts of Landscaping Around Trees

Don’t Damage Tree Roots

When planting plants, dig carefully to avoid damaging the tree roots. Use a small trowel and scoop out the soil rather than shovel it out.  

Don’t Pile Mulch

Mulch is good for the soil and can protect roots. It also acts as a cover for pests and mold. Start applying the mulch at least 10 inches away from the tree trunk for best results.  

Don’t Use Solid Plastic Sheeting

Solid plastic sheeting is useful in construction because it creates an impenetrable barrier. However, when you’re planting a garden around a tree, it’s harmful. Instead, use a porous fabric that allows water to trickle through to the tree’s roots. 

Don’t Crowd the Tree With a Deck or Patio

Trees grow faster than you might realize. When building a deck around one, leave at least two to three feet around the trunk to allow for more growth. 

Don’t Neglect the Nighttime Scene

Enjoy your work night and day by placing some solar lights to “paint” the tree. 

Do You Need More Information on How To Landscape Around Trees? 

Call New Life Rockeries at 206-489-3734 today to discuss your options. As specialists in our field, we make landscaping around trees, paths, or pools simple. Let us help make your garden magical with a landscaping contractor.