If your front yard has mature trees, don’t overlook their landscaping potential. Landscaping around trees can turn bare soil or neglected patches into attractive focal points that elevate your curb appeal and tie your entire yard together.
At Brothers Tree Service & Landscaping, we know how to design beautiful spaces that work with your trees—not against them. With the right layout and plant choices, you can bring structure, texture, and color to even the trickiest spots.
Why Tree Landscaping Matters in Front Yard Design
Trees are often the largest and most eye-catching features in a front yard. But if the area beneath them is bare or patchy, it can make the whole landscape look unfinished. A well-planned layout creates a seamless transition from tree canopy to ground level.
Smart landscape design for front yard spaces includes tree surroundings that blend in with the rest of the yard. Whether you add mulch, shade-tolerant plants, or decorative edging, it’s all about working with your tree’s roots, light, and size.
Need help choosing a layout? Visit our yard landscaping ideas page for design inspiration.
How to Design Around Trees the Right Way
Start by evaluating the size and spread of your tree. Large, mature trees offer deep shade, so select plants that thrive with minimal light. It’s also essential to avoid damaging surface roots. That means avoiding heavy digging or compacting soil around the base.
Instead, focus on adding visual interest. Use curved borders to create natural flow, and layer ground covers, mulch, and decorative stones to bring variety. Avoid building too close to the trunk—leave some space to promote healthy airflow.
For additional tips, check out our landscaping design tips to enhance property value.
Best Ideas for Landscaping Around Trees
Here are a few tried-and-true ways to elevate the area around trees in your front yard:
- Add mulch rings to protect roots and create a neat appearance
- Plant shade-tolerant perennials like hostas or ferns around the base
- Use river rocks or gravel for a modern, low-maintenance look
- Create a circular bed with layered planting for height and contrast
- Install border edging to define the space without crowding the tree
These ideas are easy to maintain and help your trees stand out as intentional parts of your front yard design.
Blending Tree Landscaping with Curb Appeal
Thoughtful landscaping around trees isn’t just about looks—it supports healthy root systems, improves soil moisture, and reduces mowing challenges. Plus, when paired with other design elements like walkways or lighting, it pulls the whole front yard together.
Homeowners looking to boost curb appeal often overlook these zones, but they’re one of the most effective areas to improve. For more curb-focused strategies, explore our guide to improving curb appeal.
FAQs About Landscaping Around Trees
Will landscaping around a tree damage its roots?
Not if done correctly. Use mulch and shallow-rooted plants, and avoid digging deep or piling soil around the trunk.
What plants grow well under trees?
Choose shade-tolerant plants like hostas, coral bells, and ferns. Ground covers like vinca and sweet woodruff also work well.
Can I use stones or gravel around trees?
Yes—just leave space near the trunk and use landscape fabric underneath to control weeds without suffocating roots.
Design Tree Beds That Work With Nature
With the right approach, landscaping around trees can turn ordinary spaces into standout features. Whether you’re refreshing your yard or planning a full makeover, Brothers Tree Service & Landscaping is here to help.
We blend beauty and function in every project, using proven sustainable landscaping ideas that protect your trees and enhance your home.