#tree pruning service

This before-and-after tree pruning in Losson RD Buffalo project showcases the outstanding results homeowners can expect from Barden Tree Service. Our professional pruning services improve tree health by removing damaged and overcrowded branches while encouraging balanced growth and reducing potential storm hazards. We combine expert knowledge, modern equipment, and careful workmanship to protect your property and leave your landscape looking its absolute best. From the initial assessment to the final cleanup, customer satisfaction remains our highest priority.

Introduction Healthy trees add value, beauty, and safety to any Sydney property. But without proper care, trees can become overgrown, unsafe, and even damage nearby structures. This is where Tree Pruning Services Sydney play a vital role. Professional pruning improves tree health, controls growth, and reduces risks caused by falling branches. In a city like Sydney, where strong winds and…

Tree removal in Australia is a process that involves more than just cutting down a tree. Regulations, environmental responsibility, and safety standards all play a role. In Melbourne and other urban centres, local councils enforce strict guidelines, especially for native vegetation. Before any removal, it's essential to check if the tree is protected under local laws. For instance, species like Eucalyptus or Banksia often require permits for removal, particularly if they're mature or provide habitat for wildlife.

The application process for a tree removal permit generally involves submitting details about the tree’s location, species, health, and the reason for removal. Councils may ask for an arborist report, a landscaping plan, or a replacement plan. Sometimes, if a tree is hazardous or an invasive species, permits might be waived, but notification is still expected. Penalties for unauthorised removal can be significant, including fines and requirements to replant.

Tree removal methods vary depending on location and tree size. In open areas, traditional tree felling is possible, where the tree is cut at the base and allowed to fall in a controlled direction. In built-up suburbs, sectional removal is more common. Here, a tree arborist climbs or uses equipment to remove the tree in pieces, lowering each section safely to the ground. This approach minimises risk to nearby structures and people.

Environmental considerations are also important. Removing a tree can impact soil stability, local biodiversity, and even the microclimate of a property. Councils may require replacement planting or establishment of a tree protection zone during works. The process is rarely straightforward, and each removal is unique, shaped by legal, ecological, and safety factors.

The Role and Expertise of a Tree Arborist

A tree arborist is a trained professional who specialises in the care, management, and study of trees. Their expertise goes well beyond simple cutting or trimming. Arborists assess tree health, diagnose diseases, and recommend treatments to promote longevity and safety. In Melbourne, arborists are often called upon to provide reports for council permits, especially when protected or significant trees are involved.

Becoming an arborist in Australia requires formal training, usually a Certificate III in Arboriculture. This qualification ensures arborists understand tree biology, safe work practices, and the legal environment around tree care. Arborists are equipped to handle complex tasks such as pruning, removal, and emergency response after storms. Their work is guided by Australian standards, which set best practices for everything from pruning techniques to the use of personal protective equipment.

Arborists also play a crucial role in urban planning. They help select suitable tree species for planting, taking into account soil conditions, climate, and local biodiversity. Their advice can prevent future problems, such as root damage to infrastructure or the spread of pests. In emergencies, arborists assess risks and carry out hazard mitigation, ensuring public safety.

The difference between a qualified arborist and a general tree worker is significant. Arborists are trained to make informed decisions that balance the needs of the environment, property owners, and the broader community. Their reports and recommendations are often required for council approval, making them a key part of the tree management process.

Tree Pruning Service: Techniques and Standards

A professional tree pruning service is essential for maintaining healthy, safe, and attractive trees in both residential and commercial settings. Pruning is not just about cutting branches; it’s a skilled practice that requires knowledge of tree biology and growth patterns. In Melbourne, arborists follow the AS4373 standard for pruning amenity trees, which outlines best practices for different tree species and situations.

Pruning techniques include:

Crown thinning: Selectively removing branches to improve light penetration and air movement.

Crown lifting: Removing lower branches for clearance.

Crown reduction: Reducing the tree’s overall size while maintaining its natural shape.

Dead-wooding: Removing dead or diseased branches to enhance safety and tree health.

Correct pruning involves making clean cuts at the right location, avoiding flush cuts, and not removing too much foliage at once. Timing is also important; pruning during active growth or extreme weather can stress the tree. In Melbourne, pruning is often scheduled for late winter or early spring for deciduous trees, while native species may have different optimal periods.

A certified arborist will assess each tree individually, considering its species, age, and condition. Inappropriate pruning can lead to long-term damage, increased risk of disease, or even structural failure. That’s why professional services are recommended, especially for large or mature trees.

Safety Protocols in Tree Removal and Pruning

Safety is at the core of every professional tree removal and tree pruning service. The risks involved are significant—working at heights, using powerful equipment, and dealing with unpredictable natural elements. Australian standards require arborists to use personal protective equipment, such as helmets, cut-resistant pants, gloves, and high-visibility clothing. Equipment must be checked regularly, and only those with appropriate training should operate machinery or climb trees.

Before any work begins, a visual tree assessment is carried out by a competent person. They look for structural faults, decay, wildlife presence, and potential hazards like power lines. The method of access—whether climbing or using elevated work platforms—is chosen based on the tree’s condition and location.

Hazards can include:

Slipping out of harnesses

Falling from branches or equipment

Wildlife encounters (bees, birds, possums)

Musculoskeletal strain from awkward positions

Being struck by falling objects

Exclusion zones are established to keep bystanders safe. Emergency plans are prepared, including rescue measures and first aid readiness. Weather conditions are monitored throughout the job, as high winds or extreme heat can make work unsafe. The hierarchy of risk control is followed, always seeking to eliminate hazards where possible.

Legal and Environmental Considerations in Melbourne

Tree removal and pruning in Melbourne are governed by a mix of state and local laws. Native vegetation is especially protected, and removing or significantly pruning such trees often requires council approval. Some trees, like those below a certain size or classified as invasive, may be exempt from permits, but it’s always best to check with the local council to avoid legal complications.

Permit applications typically require:

A detailed arborist report

A landscaping or replacement plan

Evidence of ownership and property layout

Councils assess the application based on the tree’s species, condition, and ecological value. If removal is approved, conditions may include replanting or protecting nearby vegetation. Penalties for unauthorised removal can be severe, including fines and restoration orders.

Environmental impacts are also considered. Removing a mature tree can affect local biodiversity, soil stability, and even urban temperatures. Councils may require the establishment of a tree protection zone during works to prevent damage to surrounding vegetation. In some cases, the owner is required to plant a replacement tree with similar traits to the one removed.

The legal landscape is complex and varies between councils, so professional guidance from a tree arborist is often necessary to navigate the process.

How Arborists Assess and Manage Tree Health

A tree arborist uses a combination of visual inspection, diagnostic tools, and experience to assess tree health. They look for signs of disease, pest infestation, structural weakness, and environmental stress. In Melbourne’s changing climate, drought and heat stress are becoming more common, making regular assessments even more important.

Arborists may recommend pruning to remove diseased or weak branches, fertilisation to address nutrient deficiencies, or pest control measures. In some cases, cabling or bracing is used to support weak limbs. When a tree poses a risk to people or property and cannot be saved, removal is advised.

Tree health management isn’t just reactive. Arborists develop maintenance plans tailored to each tree’s species, age, and location. These plans might include regular pruning, soil testing, and monitoring for emerging threats. In urban environments, where trees face compacted soils, pollution, and limited space, proactive care is essential for longevity.

Arborists also educate property owners about best practices, such as mulching, watering, and avoiding root damage during construction. Their holistic approach helps keep Melbourne’s urban forest healthy and resilient.

When and Why to Use Professional Tree Services

Deciding when to call a professional tree pruning service or arrange for tree removal isn’t always straightforward. Sometimes, a tree may look healthy but have hidden structural issues. Other times, overhanging branches or proximity to power lines create risks that only a trained arborist can safely address.

Here are some situations where professional help is essential:

Large, mature trees near buildings or roads

Trees showing signs of disease or decay

Branches interfering with power lines

Storm-damaged or leaning trees

Trees protected by local laws

Professional services bring expertise, equipment, and insurance, reducing the risk of injury or property damage. They also ensure compliance with council regulations and environmental standards. In Melbourne, where weather can be unpredictable and regulations strict, having a qualified arborist assess and manage your trees is often the safest and most responsible choice.

Maintaining trees through regular tree trimming isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a critical practice for ensuring safety and environmental health. In Australia’s diverse climate, overgrown branches pose risks during storm seasons, particularly in regions like Melbourne where strong winds can turn loose limbs into hazards. Professional arborists emphasise trimming to remove dead or diseased wood, which helps trees allocate resources more effectively. This process not only prolongs a tree’s life but also prevents soil erosion by maintaining root stability, a key concern in areas prone to heavy rains.

Another often overlooked benefit is improved sunlight penetration. Dense canopies block light from reaching gardens or lawns, stifling undergrowth. Strategic trimming opens up spaces, allowing grass and shrubs to thrive. For fruit trees, controlled pruning boosts yield by directing energy to fruit-bearing branches. Local councils often have specific guidelines about tree trimming, especially near power lines or protected species, making professional services vital for compliance.

The timing of trimming matters, too. Most arborists recommend late winter or early spring for deciduous trees, while native species like eucalypts may require summer attention. Incorrect timing can stress trees or leave them vulnerable to pests. It’s a delicate balance between art and science, requiring an understanding of growth patterns and local ecosystems.

Why Stump Grinding Matters After Tree Removal

When a tree is cut down, the remaining stump isn’t just an eyesore—it’s a liability. Stump grinding addresses this by mechanically shredding the stump into mulch, eliminating tripping hazards and preventing pest infestations. Termites and beetles are drawn to decaying wood, and leaving a stump untreated risks spreading these pests to healthy trees or nearby structures. The process also prepares the ground for replanting, as the mulch enriches the soil.

The equipment used varies based on stump size. Smaller residential jobs might use portable grinders, while larger stumps in commercial areas require heavy machinery. A key advantage over full stump removal is minimal soil disruption. Traditional extraction methods dig deep into the earth, disturbing gardens or underground utilities. Grinding, however, targets only the stump and surface roots, preserving the surrounding landscape.

In Melbourne, where council regulations often mandate stump removal for safety, grinding offers a compliant solution. The mulch left behind can be repurposed for garden beds, aligning with Australia’s growing emphasis on sustainable practices. Delaying grinding risks regrowth, as some species like wattles can sprout from leftover roots, creating new problems.

Navigating Professional Tree Pruning Services

Tree pruning service providers play a nuanced role in maintaining urban greenery. Unlike amateur trimming, professional pruning involves strategic cuts to shape trees, improve structural integrity, and mitigate risks. Crown thinning, for instance, reduces wind resistance in dense canopies, a crucial consideration in cyclone-prone regions. Arborists also use weight reduction techniques to prevent branches from splitting under stress, a common issue with aging gums.

One lesser-known aspect is disease management. Fungal infections like myrtle rust spread rapidly if infected branches aren’t removed properly. Qualified arborists sterilise tools between cuts to avoid cross-contamination, a step often skipped in DIY efforts. For heritage-listed trees, specialised pruning preserves historical value while meeting safety standards—a delicate task requiring council approvals and ecological awareness.

Seasonal timing impacts outcomes. Spring pruning encourages growth in flowering species, while winter work suits deciduous varieties. Native plants, however, follow different rhythms. Banksias and bottlebrushes, for example, fare best when pruned after blooming to avoid damaging nascent buds. Missteps here can lead to stunted growth or reduced flowering, underscoring the value of expert intervention.

Safety Protocols Every Arborist Follows

Tree maintenance involves inherent risks, from falling branches to equipment mishaps. Reputable tree pruning service teams adhere to strict safety protocols, often mandated by Australian standards. Here’s a breakdown of key practices:

Protective gear: Helmets with face shields guard against debris, while cut-resistant gloves improve grip on tools. High-visibility vests are standard on worksites near roads.

Equipment checks: Chainsaws undergo daily inspections for blade sharpness and fuel leaks. Climbing harnesses are stress-tested annually to ensure integrity.

Hazard assessments: Before starting, arborists scan for power lines, weak branches, and wildlife nests. Koala sightings, for instance, may delay work in protected zones.

Emergency plans: Teams maintain clear escape routes and first-aid kits, with crew members trained in CPR.

Electrical hazards demand particular caution. Branches near power lines require coordination with local utilities, as direct contact can be fatal. Even non-conductive tools pose risks if misused, highlighting why amateur attempts are discouraged.

Environmental Impacts of Tree Care Practices

Sustainable tree trimming and stump grinding are vital for preserving Australia’s biodiversity. Mature trees act as carbon sinks, but improper care can negate their benefits. For example, over-pruning reduces a tree’s ability to photosynthesise, weakening its carbon absorption capacity. Conversely, strategic thinning enhances air circulation, lowering disease risk without compromising growth.

Stump grinding supports eco-friendly waste management. The resulting mulch decomposes naturally, returning nutrients to the soil. This contrasts with burning stumps, which releases carbon and particulates. In fire-prone areas, grinding also reduces fuel loads, aligning with bushfire prevention strategies.

Urban heat islands—a growing concern in cities like Melbourne—are mitigated through thoughtful canopy management. By retaining shade trees and removing invasive species, arborists help lower ambient temperatures. However, balancing development with conservation remains challenging, especially when council regulations clash with community expectations.

Choosing the Right Arborist for Your Needs

Selecting a tree pruning service requires due diligence. Certification through the Arboriculture Australia Association is a baseline, but experience matters equally. Ask for examples of past projects, especially those involving similar tree species or site conditions. Insurance is non-negotiable; public liability coverage protects against property damage, while worker’s compensation ensures crew safety.

Local knowledge can’t be overstated. Arborists familiar with Melbourne’s clay soils, for instance, approach root management differently than those in sandy coastal regions. They’ll also navigate council permits more efficiently, whether for heritage trees or protected vegetation zones. Transparency in quoting is another red flag—reputable firms provide itemised breakdowns rather than vague estimates.

Equipment quality speaks volumes. Well-maintained grinders and cranes minimise disruption, especially in tight suburban yards. For high-risk jobs, check if the team uses drone surveys to assess tree health without climbing—a sign of investment in modern techniques.

Seasonal Considerations for Tree Maintenance

Australia’s climate diversity demands adaptable tree trimming schedules. In temperate zones like Victoria, late winter pruning prepares deciduous trees for spring growth. Tropical regions, however, face different challenges—pruning after wet seasons reduces disease exposure in humid conditions.

Expert Tree Removal Services in West Jordan

If you have a dead, diseased, or hazardous tree on your property, it’s essential to have it removed safely and efficiently. Our tree removal in West Jordan services ensure that your home, family, and landscape remain safe from potential risks. At [Your Company Name], we specialize in expert tree removal, using state-of-the-art equipment and industry best practices to get the job done right.

Why Tree Removal is Necessary

Removing a tree is not always an easy decision, but sometimes it’s the best option for safety and property maintenance. Here are some reasons why you might need professional tree removal in West Jordan:

Dead or Diseased Trees – Trees suffering from disease or decay can pose a safety hazard as they weaken over time.

Storm-Damaged Trees – Trees that have suffered storm damage may have unstable limbs or trunks that are at risk of falling.

Overgrown Roots – Large tree roots can cause damage to driveways, sidewalks, and home foundations.

Obstruction or Construction Needs – If a tree is blocking your view, interfering with power lines, or preventing construction projects, removal may be necessary.

Pest Infestation – Some trees attract pests such as termites, which can spread to nearby structures.

Our Safe & Efficient Tree Removal Process

1. Tree Assessment & Consultation

Before removal, our certified arborists evaluate the tree’s condition and determine the safest removal method. We also check for any city regulations or permits required for tree removal in West Jordan.

2. Safe Tree Removal Techniques

Our team uses industry-approved methods to remove trees safely, minimizing risks to nearby structures and landscaping. We utilize specialized equipment such as cranes, ropes, and precision cutting techniques to ensure safe removal.

3. Debris Removal & Cleanup

After tree removal, we clean up all debris, including branches, leaves, and wood. We also offer eco-friendly disposal and mulching options.

4. Stump Grinding & Removal (Optional)

To completely clear your yard, we offer professional stump grinding and removal services. This eliminates tripping hazards and prevents unwanted regrowth.

Signs You Need Tree Removal Services

Not sure if it’s time to remove a tree? Look for these warning signs:

The tree is leaning or unstable. Visible cracks or decay in the trunk. Large dead branches falling frequently. Fungus or mould growing at the tree’s base. The tree is too close to power lines or your home. The tree has stopped growing leaves or shows severe thinning.

Why Choose Us for Tree Removal in West Jordan?

Certified & Experienced Arborists

Our team consists of licensed tree care experts who understand the safest removal techniques while protecting your property.

Fully Insured & Licensed

We are a fully insured company, giving you peace of mind in case of any unforeseen incidents.

Affordable Pricing & Free Estimates

We provide transparent, competitive pricing with no hidden fees. Contact us for a free quote on tree removal services.

Emergency Tree Removal Services

If a tree poses an immediate danger due to storm damage or sudden structural failure, our emergency response team is available 24/7 to assist.

Customer Satisfaction Guarantee

We are committed to delivering top-notch service, ensuring every tree removal is handled safely, efficiently, and with minimal disruption.

Additional Tree Services We Offer

In addition to tree removal in West Jordan, we provide:

Tree Pruning Services – Enhance tree health and appearance.

Stump Grinding & Removal – Remove unsightly stumps for a cleaner yard.

Contact Us for Expert Tree Removal in West Jordan

Don’t wait until a hazardous tree causes damage—trust the professionals at Arborist Salt Lake City for safe, reliable, and affordable tree removal in West Jordan.

Living Christmas trees keep family memories alive. Children get attached to their tree and have fun watching it grow. Parents have the added pleasure of watching their kids and the tree flourish together.

Live Christmas trees are potted trees.

Once You Decide to Buy a Living Christmas Tree:

Plan a trip to your local nursery. Make it a family affair. Kids love to visit nurseries and help with tree selections. Some kids even name their new tree.

Decide exactly where to replant the tree in the spring. This way you will know the growing space. You will also know the lighting conditions.

Measure the ceiling height in the room it will visit.

Before the ground freezes, dig a hole for the tree to be planted in, in the spring. Insulate the area with leaves.

You can learn more about when to plant your tree outside by looking at the U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zone map.

The Right Time to Visit the Nursery

Visit your nursery around Thanksgiving to avoid the Christmas rush. Many nurseries will hold your tree for you until you’re ready to take it home.

Be sure to take advantage of their expert advice. Let them know you are buying a living Christmas tree to be replanted in the spring.

Tell them:

The size of the area the tree will have to grow into once it’s replanted

Outside daily lighting conditions

The height of your indoor ceiling

Be sure find out:

Which planting zone are you in, and when to plan for the tree’s replanting

Which types of trees thrive in your area — including light, size, soil, and climate considerations

Instructions for transplanting your tree in the spring

When to fertilize

Projected growth of the tree you are buying

Now, find your new living Christmas tree!

Here’s how to find a healthy one:

Check the tree for bald spots, or an unattractive trunk.

Touch the needles. It’s okay if a few brown ones near the trunk fall off. But if needles near the ends of the branches fall off, find another tree. That tree is unhealthy, has insect damage, or is dried out.

Time to Bring the Tree Home

Plan to bring the tree home about two weeks before Christmas.

But once it’s home, don’t bring it into your house just yet.

Leave the tree in a sheltered area for about a week so it can start adjusting to a new environment. A covered porch is a great transition zone.

After about three days, hose the tree down. This removes unwanted pollen and mold.

Give the roots a good watering.

Let the tree dry thoroughly.

Then, just before the tree comes inside, shake it to remove any loose needles.

Don’t Transplant the Tree

Keep it in its original container. If you transplant the tree, it can go into shock. Surviving being transplanted and moved indoors, over a short time, is too much to ask of any tree.

Your Potted Tree Needs Sunlight

Place the tree where it will get lots of natural filtered light. Putting it next to a window with sheer curtains is fine.

Avoid placing the tree close to:

Heat vents

Working fireplaces

Stoves

Space heaters

Drafts

Your tree enjoys cooler temperatures. You can lower the heat and wear a sweater. This will keep your wallet and your tree happy!

What Do You Feed a Potted Christmas Tree?

Water the tree every day. A potted tree dries out quickly, so be generous, but don’t over water.

You can place ice cubes on the soil for watering. The ice will slowly dissolve; the tree absorbs the water before it runs out the bottom of the container.

If you see your potted tree has yellowing needles or brown needles, you may fear your tree is dying. It’s trying to tell you something.

Feel the needles. If they feel too soft, the tree is being over-watered. If the needles are brown and crisp, the tree is thirsty. These needles probably won’t recover, but the tree can be saved.

Is Your Tree Root Bound?

Yellowing needles also can mean a tree is root bound. Grasp the tree by the trunk and gently pull up. If the entire root ball easily leaves the pot, it is root bound.

Replant the tree in a larger container. Give the roots ample space to grow–but not too much space. An oversized container holds more water and can cause root rot.

Decorating Your Living Tree:

Remember, your tree is a living thing, and it needs some TLC. Don’t use Christmas lights that have large bulbs. The tree’s needles can get burnt. Your tree will do well with light strings or, even better, LED lights.

Return to the Great Outdoors!

Make sure that the tree stays inside for no longer than a week to ten days.

When the holidays are over, put the tree back in the original sheltered location it visited upon arrival. Water it well. Be sure to soak the root ball.

After one week, move the container to a spot where it will enjoy plenty of outdoor sunshine.

Spring Will Be Here Soon!

Next year, plant your tree outdoors in early spring, as directed by the nursery.

Also fertilize it, as directed.

Your transplanted tree will be happy where it can soak up the sunlight.

It will provide year-round Christmas memories for your family.

Evergreen trees add year-round color while solving landscaping issues. Knowing the characteristics and benefits of some evergreens will give insight into the best evergreen trees to plant in New Jersey, and how they can improve your landscape.

The Norway Spruce (Picea abies)

The Norway spruce evergreen is a very popular New Jersey landscape tree and Christmas tree. This ornamental fast-growing tree easily tolerates New Jersey’s harsh winters.

Its shiny, bold, dark green needles can grow to one inch. What’s most striking are the tree’s cones that mature at 4-6 inches long.  

The adult tree can be 60 feet tall or more. If you’re moving into new construction or adding to your landscape, you will only need to wait a few years before you enjoy the privacy this tree offers. Its dense structure can also protect other landscaping from disruptive winds.

This spruce tree is extremely resistant to disease and insect problems. Deer will not want to munch on your tree; its needles are sharp, and the tree has little food value.

This tree requires at least six hours of sun daily, but it can tolerate partial shade. It has some drought tolerance.

It thrives in USDA plant hardiness zones 3 through 7.

The Eastern White Pine Evergreen Tree (Pinus Strobus)

The blue-green eastern white pine is also a popular fast-growing evergreen. These trees provide shelter from winds, as well. Its height at maturity can reach between 50 and 80 feet.

But in contrast to the Norway spruce’s shorter and deeper-colored pine needles, its needles are blue green, long, and velvety. They appear graceful as they wave in the breeze. The needles can reach 5 inches in length and grow in groups of 5. The tree also has brown cones, which can grow from 3 to 8 inches!

Older needle clusters are deciduous—they shed in the fall but not every year. Usually, the white pine keeps needles for 2-3 years. In the autumn, older needles change color and fall. However, the current season’s growth remains on the tree for year-round beauty.

Unfortunately, the eastern white pine is prone to disease and pest problems. It’s recommended that if you want to use this tree in your landscape, check that blister rot, a sometimes deadly tree disease, isn’t prevalent in your area.

This tree enjoys full sun and needs a minimum of four hours direct sun every day. It doesn’t do well in continually wet or drought-prone soils.

The Eastern white pine does best in USDA plant hardiness zones 3-8.

The ‘Green Giant’ Arborvitae (Thuja standishii x plicata)

This fast-growing evergreen tree has rich green foliage. It naturally takes on a narrow conical shape.

The leaves are packed tightly together to form flattened sprays. Leaves sometimes darken or slightly bronze in winter.

Hedges of arborvitae provide ample privacy. But this arborvitae also holds its own as a single specimen tree.

This tree is one of the fastest-growing conifers, growing 3 to 5 feet a year. It can reach a height of 50 feet in as little as ten years!

Once established, this tree will easily survive snowy winters. Here’s more on how to help prevent and fix winter tree damage.

It enjoys well-drained soil and does best in the sun to partial shade.

Deer are not particular fans of this tree, but if there’s a food shortage, they may munch on it.

The Eastern white pin does well in plant hardiness zones 5-8.

The American Holly Evergreen Tree (Ilex opaca)

The popular American holly evergreen tree has stiff branches and glossy green leaves. The female tree displays greenish-white blooms in the spring and vivid red berries in the fall.

This tree is an ornamental tree; it’s prized for its aesthetic value.

The American holly will lose some older leaves each spring as new leaves grow in.

At maturity, the American holly can reach between 15 and 30 feet. But the species is slow growing, so it’s not a good choice if you’re trying to create privacy quickly.

This tree grows best in well-drained soil but can tolerate moist soil. It likes full sunlight or some shade.

If you plant this tree in your yard, be sure your child or dog doesn’t eat the berries or leaves. However, these berries are a safe tasty treat for birds.

The American holly’s hardiness zones are 5-9.

Southern Magnolia Tree (Magnolia grandiflora)

The southern magnolia tree is a broad-leafed evergreen tree with shiny large leaves. And this ornamental tree’s not shy—it will enjoy being the centerpiece of your landscape.

Its richly perfumed showy blooms arrive in late spring and can grow up to 12 inches in diameter. Family and friends will want to experience the creamy-white fragrant flowers up close.

Older brown and yellowing leaves drop in the spring after new green leaves have already come out—often just before flowering.

The southern magnolia tree can grow to a height of 60-80 feet and does well in full sun or partial shade. It thrives in moist, rich soil.

The USDA plant hardiness zone spans 6a–10a.

Read more about ornamental trees and how to get them ready for spring. We also have tips on protecting ornamental trees in winter.