Shade Tolerant Trees for Intimate Gardens in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Let me introduce you to some of my favorite shade friendly trees for Intimate Gardens in Michigan.  I prefer using dwarf varieties of trees in most home landscapes because they tend to stay within the bounds of typical gardens.  You should always consider the mature size of any plant you install in your landscape.  Landscapes are often overwhelmed by trees and shrubs that become overgrown.

Japanese Maples such as the above Crimson Queen Maple bring significant interest from spring through fall. Whatever the size of your landscape, there is one that will fit your gardens.   You will be amazed at the color options.  Bright reds, maroons, chartreuse, variegated.  The shape of the leaves vary dramatically too. Deeply lobed with serrated edges to broad and smooth.  So, whether you enjoy the broader view or exploring the details, Japanese Maples are for you. 

Acer palmatum 'Okagami' is stunning dwarf upright Japanese Maple whose Burgundy wine colored leaves contrast beautifully with the white/ grey bark.

The Golden Hinoki False Cypress - Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Nana Lutea' has a glow about it.  The contrasting deep green of older needles acts as a foil for the newer golden needles. The texture of this dwarf tree creates is reminiscent  of billowing clouds or lush woodland moss.

Another Hinoki False Cypress, 'Nana Gracilis', adds interesting texture with its flat fan like branching habit.  This compact tree is an excellent choice for small gardens and set against walls and fences. Try it with Scarlet Carpet Roses and 'Little Bunny' grass.

For very narrow areas or to emphasis the entrance to a garden or pathway, or even in an urn, check out Chamaecyparis obtuse 'Spiralis'.  An excellent small tree for small gardens. 

To see these trees and a large variety of unique garden trees in West Michigan, check out Blue Horizon Nursery - 09721 59th St. Grand Junction, MI 49056. Check them out online at http://bluehorizonnursery.com/?page=home.  Tell Bill Brent Langley sent you.

Nature Photography and Landscape Photos Available For Purchase

I did not discover my artistic abilities until my twenties when I started doodling during boring college classes. Eventually, I found I could sketch photographs and live subjects fairly well in pen and pencil.  Unfortunately, I never took drawing classes. That will happen eventually.

I took one black and white photography class at GVSU back in the day. Loved it!  Exposure to photography opened my eyes to a world of art to which I was not previously atuned. It gave me another artistic outlet and introduced me to artists like Ansel Adams. His work is truly inspirational as I am sure most of you are aware. Before this, my exposure to photography was simple family pictures, such as those seen on most lowly livingroom or hallway walls. Nothing fancy. Just point-and-shoot.

With the advent of my own family, artistic pursuits fell by the wayside. I continued working in landscaping, and took up pen and pensil to render designs, and sketch. But photography was limited by available funds and time. (35 mm cameras and film was an expensive habit to support).

Recently, I took up photography again using my new Rebel. Digital is a blessing. Because of my many years in landscaping, and my love of the outdoors, including rock climbing, biking, hiking and running, I have begun by focusing on landscape and nature photography. I am interested in art portraits, but that pursuit will wait.

Delphinium and Waxflower Still Life
Boat Shack on Thornapple River in Cascade, MI

Boat Shack on Thornapple River in Cascade, MI 

 

 Thornapple River Shore Cascade, MI

 

 Shot on Reeds Lake Boulevard 

Shot on Reeds Lake Boulevard  

 East Grand Rapids High School Crew Team's Reeds Lake Dock in December Early Evening

 

Manhattan Park: Winter Woodland Stream

Nature photography assists me in studying natural formations (rocks, cliffs, hills, valleys, and mountains, streams, lakes, ponds and shores), as well as growth habits of plants and plant communities.  These natural habits and patterns help inform my landscape design.  My goal in photography and landscape design is to identify and artistically interpret what I see in an aesthetically pleasing way.

As I continue to add to my collection, I will post on my blog and make my work available for purchase.  If you are interested in purchasing a digital copy or print of any of these photos, let me know and I will make the arrangements.  All works seen on my site are copyrighted and all rights reserved.

Meanwhile, enjoy my work.

If you would like me to capture your gardens or property in photos, feel free to contact me via my blog or at (616) 328-3258.

Brent Langley