For a more lush landscape, consider branching out a bit by planting a weeping tree.
If you want a stunningornamental plantfor your yard or garden, a weeping tree is the perfect choice.
Weeping trees offer more than good looks and elegance, however.
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They canprovide shadeand help control erosion and excess moisture in the ground.
Picking the right weeping tree for your landscape can give you years of beauty and lasting rewards.
The downward-growing branches give weeping trees a graceful, unique look.
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Some weeping trees have flowers and leaves, while others have needles and cones.
Below are the most popular types of weeping trees.
Camperdown Elm
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The Camperdown Elm (Ulmus glabra Camperdownii) originated in Dundee, Scotland.
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The elegant weeping trees have dense green foliage and twisted branches.
The sprawling, deciduous tree has dark green leaves that turn yellow in the fall.
Leaves are typically about 8 inches long, broad, and double-toothed.
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Camperdown Elms prefer full to partial sun and do best with minimal pruning.
It thrives in hardiness zones 4 through 6.
Leaves are lance-shaped and twisted.
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The leaves are green in spring and summer and turn gold in the autumn before falling off.
The golden tree grows up to 40 feet tall and 20 feet wide.
It does well in hardiness zone 4.
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The cold-tolerant tree thrives in cool temperatures and grows well in hardiness zones 2B through 7A.
Its dark gray-green foliage cascades down from upcurved branches for a majestic look.
The low-maintenance conifer tree ranges from 2 to 35 feet tall and 8 to 12 feet wide.
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It thrives in hardiness zones 4 through 7.
The Weeping Birch has branches that droop downward and leaves that transform from green to golden in the fall.
Characteristics and Features of Weeping Trees
The defining feature of a weeping tree is its drooping branches.
This creates a soft, flowing form that resembles a waterfall of greenery.
Depending on the species, weeping trees can have different shapes.
Some, like the Camperdown Elm, have a cascading, umbrella-like canopy.
The leaves of weeping trees also vary depending on the species.
Some have shapes like teardrops (weeping birch) or needles (Nootka Cypress and Inversa Norway Spruce).
Choose a tree that will fit in your desired space when its fully grown.
Consider the available space, as some species require more room to flourish.
Additionally, the trees forma dramatic focal point or a serene backdropshould complement your gardens design.
Incorporating organic matter into the backfill can enhance soil structure.
Mulch around the base while avoiding direct contact with the trunk to help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Be mindful of the downward-growing branches, and handle your weeping tree with care when planting.
How to Care for Weeping Trees
Weeping trees flourish with well-draining soil and regular watering.
Your trees exact needs depend on what jot down of weeping tree you have.
Pruning
In general, weeping trees do not requirea lot of pruning.
Pruning weeping trees is most easily done during dormant periods, before leaves form each spring, says Eaton.
Monitor for signs of pests like aphids and diseases such as powdery mildew, Davis says.
Early detection and treatment, including eco-friendly options likeneem oil, can prevent more severe problems.
Encouraging biodiversity in your garden can also promote natural pest control.
Weeping trees can offer shady solace for pets, kids, and wildlife.
Birds and bees love weeping trees for their safe spaces.
You canmonitor beesand wildlife to ensure they dont become a nuisance in your yard.
Bees love to build nests within the protection of weeping trees.
Birds love weeping trees for the same reasons as beessafety and protection, Eaton says.
The thick and sometimes crossed branching makes it more difficult for predators to reach the nest.
Weeping treesattract wildlifebecause of the endless bows of shelter.
