By Sonya Welter

Trees provide shade in the summer and a windbreak in the winter, and mature trees make the biggest impact for beautifying your neighborhood or boosting your property value.

It’s true that trees are an investment in the future, but many trees grow faster than you might think, and that skinny little sapling you plant today will look lush and established in just a few years.

So how do you choose the perfect tree for your yard?

First, decide what you want the tree for. Conifers like spruce, pine and fir are good for windbreaks or for privacy hedges, since they stay bushy year round. If you want a tall boulevard tree, consider maples, oaks, elms or basswoods.

If you’ve got a tiny urban lot, look for Read the rest of this entry »

By Vanessa Richins

Whether your yard is large or small, you can experience the amazement and joy of a tree that has been shaped into unusual and wonderful new designs.

There are several different forms you can choose.

Bonsai

Bonsai trees can fit into any household. Did you know that these little trees are the same exact species that you would find outdoors? The Japanese have perfected this art of careful pruning and training over the course of many years. if you have the time and lots of patience, you can learn to create your own bonsai.

• A good general book : The Complate Book of Bonsai by Harry Tomlinson
• For the quirky fun side of bonsai : Pop Bonsai: Fun with Arranging Small Trees and Plants by Lisa Tajima

Topiary

Topiaries are trees and shrubs that have Read the rest of this entry »