All of the huge oak trees (five of them) in our front yard needed work and the big sycamore tree in the backyard that was much too close to the house - well, much as I loved it, it needed to be gone. In the end, we had the sycamore tree and the two smallest oak trees removed, and the live oaks and remaining Shumard red oak (my favorite) were pruned, all dead limbs and some live ones removed. The result is a much sunnier yard in many areas. I'm going to have to rethink some of my plantings and probably move even more plants than I had previously intended this winter.
It's a drastic change and takes some getting used to, but I think I like it. Plus we now have plenty of oak firewood for our fireplace, so we are prepared for a cold winter. (Well, I guess we will be prepared for winter next year, because I'm told this wood needs to age for a year.)
My main problem with the change is that my backyard shade where I sat every day and watched the birds and butterflies is gone. I will miss that tree.
As a temporary solution, I could use a table umbrella at the table where I usually sit, but I'd like something to provide more permanent shade. A pergola or arbor maybe? I'll have to give it some thought.
Meantime, I'll just have to find another vantage point for watching butterflies.
Build a pergola, absolutely! And grow grapes or fragrant climbing roses on it!
ReplyDeleteI really like that idea, Jason. Now if I can just convince hubby!
DeleteI agree, pergola's are functional and architecturally interesting. We had to take out some trees a few years ago that where too close to the house. It really did change the look and I hated taking healthy trees out but for my sanity and safety(they were dropping acorns on the roof over the master bedroom)they had to go.
ReplyDeleteI mourn my lost trees, but, like you, I know it was for the best. I console myself with the thought that it creates new gardening opportunities.
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