Landscape design

Forms of Trees and Their Maintenance

The forms and shapes of the trees are dependent on the species of the trees as much as leaf
shapes and bark patterns. Tree forms also help how to fit a tree according to the space
availability. Landscape design can be unique by playing with these different forms of the trees.
It is also important to find the right type of tree according to climate and environment. These

are the few types of forms of trees;

Branches Ascending: The branches of these trees angle upwards, keeping the tree relatively
tight in form

Broad-domed:These trees are generally wider then they are tall.

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Columnar: Columnar trees are generally tall and narrow with branching that sits tight on the
tree.

Conical: Just as the name suggests, these are shaped like cones with the point to the top.

Fastigiate: In horticultural terms, fastigiate means having erect, almost parallel branches. This
type of tree is tall and narrow so it's suitable in gardens where space is limited.

Horizontal Branching: These trees are great for shade coverage as their branches grow
horizontally, reaching well out from the trunk.

Oval: Generally speaking, this form whilst being rounded, peaks at the top.

Palm: This form specifically relates to palm trees.

Round: This form represents the natural form of a tree where foliage above the main section
of the trunk is full, creating a rounded canopy.

Shrub: Shrub-like is a term we use to describe a tree that is small and fully branched to the
ground.

Vase-Shaped: We use this term for trees that branch out in a V-shape form.

Weeping: The foliage and branches on a weeping tree is far more accentuated than a tree we
term pendulous.

Maintenance of Trees
Trees need regular maintenance to ensure their long-term health and safety in our landscapes.
There are lots of things we can do to trees grow large and live long, productive lives, for
example

 Trimming or pruning is one of the most important aspects of tree maintenance.

Regular tree trimming is important to remove dead branches and leaves to maintain
their beautiful, healthy appearance. Trees are pruned according to their age, size,
shape, character and condition.
 Tree surgery is also very important part in maintenance of trees. It should be done by
the trained operators and professionals.it includes the removal of top heavy branches,
bracing old and brittle branches, removing diseased potion and cleaning out the
cavities.
 Trees in urban and suburban environments face high-stress conditions like low
moisture availability, compaction, physical damage, and construction. with these
conditions trees will not reach their full landscape potential, have a shorter lifespan,
and will be more susceptible to insects and diseases. So, fertilization one of the best
tree maintenance efforts.
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 Applying mulch is one of the best tree maintenance

efforts. Mulching insulates the roots providing a buffer
from heat and cold, retains water, keeps out weeds,
prevents compaction.
 Soil management is essential to good tree maintenance.
The goal of this is to keep the soil composition balanced
and enhance the quality. It is critical to root growth and
overall health.
 The root system is the most important part of a plant’s structure and should be
included in your tree maintenance. Unhealthy or diseased roots will cause tree failure,
making it a hazard.
 Protection during construction is an extremely important part of tree maintenance
because the damage that occurs during construction is irreversible. Critical root zones
are very easily damaged by construction. So, some steps should be taken during
construction to save the planted trees.
 watering is extremely important. While older and larger trees need less maintenance,
newer or replanted trees need more regular watering to stay healthy.

Trees are a beautiful and environmentally friendly addition to any yard. When taken care of
correctly, your tree can have a long lifespan that you and many others can enjoy for years to
come.