Feature Tree Ring in Kensington

An open lawn can feel flat without something to draw the eye. Placing a raised tree ring in the middle of the grass adds height, structure and a clear centrepiece. The matte black finish ties in with the dark brickwork nearby and contrasts beautifully with the bright green lawn and white weatherboards.

A tree ring does more than look good. It gives the tree its own defined garden bed, which:

• Helps keep mowers and trimmers away from the trunk
• Separates the lawn edge from the tree's planting bed
• Keeps soil and mulch within a defined planting area
• Makes watering and maintenance easier

The bed needs to suit the tree as well as the design. Allow for root growth and drainage, keep the root flare visible and avoid piling soil or mulch against the trunk. When working around an established tree, do not raise soil levels around it without appropriate advice.

We finished the ring with round-leafed underplanting that echoes the surrounding garden beds. The broad, glossy foliage softens the clean edges of the ring and ties the feature into the rest of the landscape. As the tree grows and the plants fill out, the ring will look fuller and more established every season.

A feature tree ring is an easy way to add a designer touch to a garden. It can work in front yards and backyards, on lawns or within a paved layout, with the finish selected to suit your home's style. The planting space, drainage and room for the tree to grow should guide the design.