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Shade

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You cannot discount the huge shade tree's by thinking they are not ornamental. They are. There is nothing more lovely then a maple tree. It is breathtaking no matter what time of the year you look at it. So you have the best of both worlds there, ornamental and shade.

Plus you can even go with a crabapple tree. Is any more of a diverse shade tree? Its lovely in the spring and then in the summer you can choose one with the small apples, large apples, or no apples. The blossoms are lovely as well and you have a choice of colors, white, pink, red, or even a stunning pink. And yet they grow large enough to offer ample shade to any landscape. They require very little care, as well. I think that they are truly one of my all time favorites when it comes to a tree. You can also control and maintain its size. If you want a smaller shade tree then you can easily keep it pruned back but if you want it to grow wild it requires no pruning and will grow to a large tree in a short time.

The same with the Dogwood. A beautiful tree. It offers lovely blossoms. And it has a wonderful use as a shade tree.

If you a need an all time favorite for a shade tree then the there is no better then the Weeping Willow. What a stunning tree! Plus you can maintain it through pruning to fit your tastes. No there are no blossoms but you don't need them with this looker.
They are an easy care tree and they bring a certain peacefulness and wistful feelings to any landscape.

I think that most important thing to take into consideration is your space. If you have a large front yard then you can maintain a large shade tree. But if your front yard is small then you are going to have to go with a smaller shade tree.

There is also the Mountain Ash. Its a nice tree that ends up adorned with orange berries that the birds love. Some people view them as messy, however. But they can turn into a giant that will look stunning any front yard. And they offer a nice level of shade.

I'd say to research the various tree's and make your choice based on the ease of care and the look that you wish to attain. But nothing looks more homey then a house with a couple of nice shade tree's that command the front yard.

Learn more about this author, Kim Sharpe.
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