At G&G Landscape Solutions, we understand trees and shrubs play a critical role in creating depth and visual interest in any landscape design plans. From providing vertical accents, framing views, and adding texture and contrast, strategically incorporating trees and shrubs can transform outdoor spaces into dynamic and visually engaging environments.
Below, we share five tips to help you create depth and dimension in your residential or commercial spaces through the strategic use of trees and shrubs.
Tip 1: Embrace Variety in Height and Form
Diversity is key when creating depth in landscape design. Incorporate trees and shrubs of varying heights and shapes to establish visual interest and depth.
Tall, upright trees such as oaks or maples provide vertical accents and draw the eye upward, while lower-growing shrubs like boxwoods, lemon lime nandina and hydrangeas create layers of texture and visual interest closer to the ground.
Mix in medium-sized trees and shrubs with different shapes and growth habits to add complexity and dimension to your landscape design plans.
Tip 2: Layer with Foliage and Texture
It’s also important to consider foliage and texture when thinking about your landscape and the desired layout. Select trees and shrubs with contrasting leaf shapes, sizes, and colors to create dynamic compositions.
Incorporate evergreens for year-round structure and stability, interspersed with deciduous trees and shrubs such as maples, oaks and dogwoods that provide seasonal interest through changing foliage and colorful blooms.
Consider the texture of leaves and bark as well, opting for a mix of smooth, rough, shiny, and matte surfaces to enhance visual depth and tactile appeal.
Tip 3: Frame Views and Define Spaces
Strategically place trees and shrubs to frame views, create focal points, and define outdoor spaces. Use tall, columnar trees to draw attention to focal points such as architectural features on buildings or unique views.
Plant low-growing shrubs such as azaleas, hydrangeas and dwarf holly along pathways and borders to create visual boundaries and guide movement through the landscape.
Incorporate specimen trees, such as colorful Japanese maples, weeping willows, and flowering magnolias as focal points in outdoor living areas, adding interest and color to gathering spaces.
Tip 4: Consider Scale and Proportion
Pay careful attention to scale and proportion when selecting and placing trees and shrubs for your landscape design. Choose plants that are proportional to the size of your outdoor space, avoiding overcrowding or overwhelming smaller areas with large plantings.
Consider the mature size and growth rate of trees and shrubs, allowing ample space for them to reach their full potential without overshadowing or crowding neighboring plants.
Create balance and harmony by grouping trees and shrubs of similar sizes and forms, ensuring a cohesive and visually appealing composition.
Tip 5: Layer with Underplanting and Groundcovers
Complete the layered look in your landscape design plans by incorporating underplanting and groundcovers beneath trees and shrubs. Choose low-growing perennials such as phlox, grasses, or groundcovers such as creeping Jenny and sedum that thrive in the shade and dappled light provided by overhead foliage, adding depth and interest at the ground level.
Select plants with contrasting foliage colors and textures to create visual intrigue and complement the overarching canopy above.
Mulch applied generously is another option to not only suppress weeds and retain moisture, but to also create a cohesive visual backdrop that ties the entire design together.
Elevate Your Landscape Design Plans with Depth and Dimension
Incorporating trees and shrubs into your landscape design is more than just adding greenery—it’s about creating depth, texture, and visual intrigue that captivates the eye and makes a space feel well thought out and cohesive.
By embracing variety, layering with foliage and texture, framing views, considering scale and proportion, and layering with underplanting or mulch, you can enhance your outdoor space in a thoughtful and deliberate way that stands the test of time, providing lasting beauty for years to come.
Take Your Landscape to the Next Level with G&G Landscape Solutions
While you can certainly add trees and shrubs to your landscape on your own, hiring an experienced landscape design company like G&G Landscape Solutions can mean the difference between a nice yard and a beautiful and cohesive outdoor space.
Our talented landscape design professionals have the experience and knowledge to create a luxurious landscape design that you can enjoy for years to come.
When considering your landscape design plans for either your residential or commercial space in the coming year, we invite you to work with our outdoor living consultants at G&G Landscape Solutions.
Contact us today for a FREE 20-minute consultation.
Our expert landscape designers are dedicated to bringing your landscape vision to life from initial installation to ongoing maintenance of your elevated outdoor environment.
About G&G Landscape Solutions
G&G Landscape Solutions, a proudly locally owned and full-service enterprise, is committed to delivering a premium custom outdoor space for every customer.
With over 30 years of dedicated service in the Charlotte metro area, G&G Landscape Solutions guides you seamlessly through the entire process and beyond. Our offerings include design services, expert installation of landscapes and hardscapes, and ongoing maintenance.
We also offer commercial maintenance and construction services. Rest assured, as a licensed and insured provider, G&G Landscape Solutions is ready to transform your outdoor space into your dream space. We are committed to delivering a finished product that meets and exceeds your expectations.
