March 2021
On a recent installation job in Charlotte, NC, we had the opportunity to work with some really unique trees that are worth highlighting this month! When trying to create privacy in small spaces, upright and compact trees are priceless. They provide a tall layer of screening and shade while having clearance from the ground to maximize space for playing and gathering. It’s hard to find trees that keep a tight, columnar shape.
Fawn Renae Designs chose Musashino Zelkovas (Zelkova serrata ‘Musashino’) as slender trees to provide privacy for this intimate backyard. Even though we received them without leaves during their dormant season – a perfect time for planting trees – the branching structure of these trees was amazing! You could instantly tell that these zelkovas were a great choice to fit the aesthetics and functionality of the landscape design with their tight, upright branches.
Source: J. Frank Schmidt & Son Co.
Zelkovas are known for being extremely tolerant of urban conditions. They are often used as street trees because they can survive poor soil conditions, drought, flooding, and pollution. In this particular installation, the site had the crumby, backfill soils that come with new construction and faces heavy water influxes when it rains due to the slope across the yard and the yards of the surrounding neighbors. Another reason the zelkovas are the perfect fit!
Source: J. Schmidt & Son Co. 
Check out the specs:
Height: 30-45’
Spread: 10-15’
Hardiness Zone: 5-9
Growth Rate: Fast
Maintenance: Low, prune as necessary to improve structure
Water Needs: Water through first growing season to establish; tolerates drought and heat once established
Trying to decide what works best in your space? Need a little help? Contact Fawn Renae Designs for a custom digital landscape design and Fawn will take the guesswork out of your landscaping! Want the full package? Hire Those Plant Ladies to complete your installation and you’ll have the landscape of your dreams before you know it!
