Arbor Day is more than just a holiday—it’s a reminder that the trees we plant today shape the beauty, comfort, and value of our landscapes for years to come. Whether you’re looking to create cool shade, add seasonal color, or elevate your curb appeal, there’s no better time to invest in trees that will truly grow with you.
At Calloway’s and Cornelius, we’re celebrating Arbor Day by highlighting some of our favorite shade and ornamental trees—perfect for your Texas landscapes.
Shade Trees That Make a Lasting Impact
Looking to cool your Texas home? Shade trees are a must-have for creating a more comfortable outdoor space and reducing indoor energy costs.
Live Oaks
A Texas classic. Live Oaks are known for their sprawling canopies and long lifespan, making them a legacy tree for generations to enjoy.
Red Oaks
Fast-growing and vibrant, Red Oaks deliver stunning fall color and provide excellent shade as they mature.
Chinese Pistache
One of the best all-around landscape trees. It’s drought-tolerant, low-maintenance, and puts on a brilliant red orange show in the fall.
Ornamental Trees for Color & Character
If you want to add personality and beauty to your yard, ornamental trees are the way to go. These smaller trees pack a big visual punch.
Little Gem Magnolias
Compact and elegant, these evergreens feature glossy leaves and fragrant white blooms that are perfect for adding year-round interest.
Redbuds
A spring favorite! Redbuds burst into vibrant pink and purple blooms early in the season, making them a standout in any landscape.
Japanese Maples
Known for their delicate leaves and rich color, Japanese Maples bring a touch of artistry and sophistication to shaded areas.
Fringe Trees
A hidden gem! These unique trees produce soft, fringe-like white blooms in spring and thrive in a variety of settings.
Desert Willows
Perfect for Texas heat, Desert Willows are drought-tolerant and thrive in full sun. Their trumpet-shaped blooms add a soft, airy look to the landscape while attracting pollinators like hummingbirds—making them as lively as they are beautiful.
Grow Your Own with Fruit Trees
While shade and ornamental trees take center stage, fruit trees are a rewarding addition to any garden.
Fruit trees not only provide fresh, homegrown flavor—they also add beauty and functionality to your space.
Our top picks include:
- Peaches
- Limes
- Lemons
- Avocados
Tree Care Tips for Long-Term Success
Planting your tree is just the beginning. With the right care—and the right products—you can set your trees up to thrive in Texas conditions.
- Choose the right place
Always consider sunlight needs and mature size to ensure your tree has room to thrive and grow! - Start with the right soil
Start with the best foundation by planting with high-quality Calloway’s Premium Tree & Shrub Garden Soil. It’s specially blended to improve drainage and support strong root development right from the start. - Give your trees a jump start
Use Nature’s Creation Root Stimulator at the time of planting and periodically per label directions to help establish a strong root system. - Water deeply and consistently
Newly planted trees need regular, deep watering to establish roots—especially during warmer months. - Feed for healthy growth
Support lush foliage and strong root systems with Calloway’s Premium Tree and Shrub Plant Food. Regular feeding helps your trees grow fuller, greener, and more resilient. - Prune with purpose
Remove dead or damaged branches as needed to maintain structure and encourage healthy growth.
🌼 Plant Today, Enjoy for Years to Come
This Arbor Day, make a lasting impact on your landscape—and your lifestyle—by planting a tree that will grow with you. Whether you’re drawn to the shade of a mighty oak or the elegance of a flowering ornamental, Calloway’s and Cornelius has everything you need to get started.
Choosing the right tree is easy with us! Our knowledgeable team of Texas Certified Nursery Professionals are here to help you select the perfect tree for your space, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
Even better—all trees are 30% off this week, April 24–April 30, 2026, making it the perfect time to plant and save. If you are short on time, ask about our Pick & Plant service and let us deliver and plant your trees for you!
Visit your local Calloway’s or Cornelius Nursery to explore our wide selection and get expert advice you can trust.
What do I need to know about planting Trees in Texas?
The best time to plant trees in Texas is during spring and fall when temperatures are milder. Planting during these seasons helps trees establish strong root systems before extreme heat or cold sets in.
New trees need deep watering 2–3 times per week, depending on rainfall and temperature. The goal is to keep the root ball consistently moist (not soggy) while roots establish.
Consider sunlight, available space, soil conditions, and your goals—whether that’s shade, privacy, or ornamental beauty. Our Texas Certified Nursery Professionals can help match you with the perfect fit.
Trees like Live Oaks, Chinese Pistache, and Desert Willows are known for being low-maintenance, drought-tolerant, and well-adapted to Texas climates.
It’s best to start with a root stimulator at planting, then begin regular feeding after the tree is established. Using a quality plant food helps encourage strong growth and long-term health.
Spacing depends on the mature size of the tree. Large shade trees may need 20–40 feet of space, while smaller ornamental trees can be planted closer together.
Yes! Many fruit trees like peaches, lemons, and limes thrive with proper care, sunlight, and water. All citrus trees will need protection during colder temperatures.
Marketing leader with 10+ years of experience, blending creativity with deep, hands-on knowledge of the horticulture industry. Energized by plants, sports, good food, and great style.