including tree's in a mixed border?

michelle M

I was thinking of including 2/3 tree's in a long border ( 105 feet), now that I'm trying to put my plan on paper, I'm not sure what to do.
can anyone give me tips on this regards size of tree's to include so as not to have everything else in shade. Do I need to use all column-shape tree's? The border is south facing. I am hoping to use Sorbus vilmorinii(16' X 16'), a small cherry blossom(Prunus), preferably not dwarf variety and another tree around 15/16' high, haven't decided what.
I had intended to use Prunus "shogetsu", but at 16' X 26', it would create a lot of shade.
Any help, advice or recommendations really appreciated,please.

Sive · Posted: Mon Aug 03, 2009 1:53 pm Post subject:

Amelanchiers are beautiful small trees and cast a light shade.

BlackBird · Rank attained: Ash Tree Joined: 25 Jan 2007 Posts: 227

Stags horn or rhus will make a small tree. Unreal autumn colour as well.

michelle M · Posted: Tue Aug 04, 2009 2:05 pm Post subject:

Great, thanks. I was hoping that I wouldn't be advised against including tree's in the border.
Must go and google those suggestions. Thanks again

Sive · Posted: Tue Aug 04, 2009 5:09 pm Post subject:

Am I right in thinking the Rhus tends to throw up suckers? Just keep that in mind, as you may not want that problem in a perennial bed.

Sarah Evans · Posted: Wed Aug 05, 2009 6:41 am Post subject:

We inherited a similar style bed and it includes Arbutus unedo (Strawberry tree) a variety of Pittosporums the largest stands at 18' and Holly.

Look forward to updates on what you decide to plant.

Sarah

michelle M · Posted: Wed Aug 05, 2009 9:06 am Post subject:

I didn't really like the Rhus, to be honest. The Amelanchier is a definate possibility. . Must look up the strawberry tree now. I'm finding it very hard to plan, being such a long border. Any examples that I've seen in books are for much shorter borders. I have no problem picking plants for the back of the border, it's narrowing down my list is the problem.
I'm putting all shrubs, grasses and bamboo to the back. For the middle and front, I'm not sure what way to place the shrubs and perennial mix. Well loads of options for the front too, so it's the middle is my main problem. I love perennials, I want the colour , but I'm afraid I'll have too many "gaps" in winter.
If anyone has time to put up pic's of their borders, I'd really appreciate the inspiration. I'm feeling a bit snowed under.