[Arid_gardener] Yard Tree

[Dick Gross]

Personally, if I had a little time, I would cruise some upscale neighborhoods at slow speeds with a notebook to see what's already out there meeting my visual expectations and standards. 

If you see a tree that appeals to you, knock on the door and ask for a name or a small leaf cluster that your nurseryman can identify. If no one is home, use your digital camera or go back later. Speaking to the owner is an opportunity to inquire about undesirable features not obvious at the moment.

Public building landscapes, resorts like the Camelback Inn, parks, library grounds--Glendale Library on 59th between Dunlap and Peoria has an excellant arbotetum fully marked  throughout the grounds, and many other sites have mature, established trees that you can observe and picture in your own domain.

An excellant source for visual specimens is the many retail nurseries around town. Most have a Horticulturist on staff.  Do some exploratory window shopping. See something you like? Ask the staff if they know where an adult speciman can be seen.

Don't overlook evergreen fruit trees. Citrus trees are beautiful year round with little care and maintenance. I have a 15 foot mango tree that is delightful and fruitful. Bananas are great for landscaping.

Ideas are abundant and limited only by your imagination. Let us know what you come up with. If you need more input, don't hesitate to ask again.

Dick Gross
Master Gardener Volunteer
University of Arizona 
Maricopa County Cooperative Extension

 
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