Know your heights and widths!

Planting plants in the landscape might seem like an easy task. But there are many factors to take into consideration such as soil types, sun and shade patterns, and water requirements. One factor that is sometimes difficult for many people is planning for a mature landscape when placing smaller, younger plants.

It’s easy to understand how we can go wrong We see the two young shrubs in a one gallon container and they are 2′ tall and about as wide. Seems like it makes sense to plant them next to each other, maybe just touching. Now your newly planted area is lush and lovely and looks pretty.

But wait! You do a very good job of caring for your plants. Suddenly, your two 2′ shrubs want to be their mature width of 6′ wide! Now both shrubs are competing for space and they aren’t looking quite so friendly as one will eventually crowd out the other. And, since you did such a good job of caring for your plants, their roots are now well established and they are difficult to relocate.

And there’s another problem! The growing two shrubs you did such a good job of caring for are now approaching their mature height. They are hiding your favorite rose bush, sending sprawling branches across your porch and blocking your front windows.

Knowing the potential height and width of the mature plants we want to use in the landscape is very important. Plants need to be strategically located for the potential width and height of the mature plant with enough space around them. If mature size is not taken into account when planted, there can also be conflicts with structures, walkways, outdoor activities, utility easements and even with your neighbors.

It might take 3-5 years for a shrub or small tree to reach its mature size. Larger trees may continue to grow for many, many years. The difficulty is visualizing what your yard will look like 5 years in the future or 10 or 20 years while placing plants today. A professional garden designer can help guide you with locating your new plants for a successful outcome and a lovely garden to enjoy for many years to come!