Landscape trees and shrubs are not difficult to plant, but proper species selection and planting techniques are necessary to ensure success. Successful planting also requires a knowledge of growth characteristics, site requirements and intended landscape function. Planting Locations Selecting planting locations is one of the most critical decisions made during the planting process. If the plant must eventually be removed because the site is unsuitable, then the planting was a failure. To avoid failure, consider overhead and underground utilities, future construction sites and the mature size of the plant.
Trees often have to be removed because they have grown too large for the site.
Large landscape-sized trees should be planted a minimum of 15 to 20 feet away from buildings or other obstructions. Overhead and underground utilities must be considered in order to avoid potential conflicts. Large trees should be planted a minimum of 20 to 25 feet from overhead power lines. Shrubs should be planted a minimum of 5 feet away from any potential conflict. These distances are minimums and greater distances would be preferable in most cases.