Best Trees to Plant in Your Backyard for Shade & Sustainability

If you're looking for ways to elevate your outdoor space with beauty, function, and eco-conscious flair, planting trees is a natural choice. The right trees can provide shade, enhance privacy, attract pollinators, and even boost your property value. When paired with hardscape features like paver patios, walkways, pergolas, and outdoor kitchens, they create the perfect balance between structure and softness in your yard.

Whether you're dreaming of backyard barbecues under leafy canopies or simply want a low-maintenance way to make your space more sustainable, this guide to the best backyard trees has you covered.

Why Trees Matter in Outdoor Living Design

Trees do more than look beautiful—they’re a long-term investment in comfort and sustainability. Here’s what they bring to the table:

• Natural Shade

  Fast-growing landscape trees reduce heat around paver patios and make your space more comfortable in warmer months.

• Eco-Friendly Yard Design

  Trees reduce carbon dioxide, clean the air, and provide vital habitats for birds and pollinators.

• Energy Efficiency

  Strategically planted trees can help shade your home and reduce cooling costs.

• Stormwater Management

  Trees improve drainage and help manage runoff, especially in combination with permeable paver surfaces.

• Aesthetic Appeal

  Lush greenery softens hardscape lines and adds dimension and seasonal interest to your backyard design.

5 Best Shade Trees for Patios and Paver Surrounds

Not every tree plays well with patios—some have invasive roots or high maintenance needs. Below are top picks that grow quickly, require minimal upkeep, and work beautifully near hardscapes:

1. Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia)

• Why it works - Compact roots, beautiful blooms, and a high tolerance for heat.

• Perfect for - Accent trees near patios or walkways; they add color without overwhelming your layout.

• Bonus - Available in multiple sizes and shapes, so you can choose the right fit for your space.

2. Red Maple (Acer rubrum)

• Why it works - A fast grower with brilliant fall color and adaptable to various soils.

• Perfect for - Large yards with room to spread; offers dappled shade over paver driveways or lawns.

• Planting tip - Give it ample space to avoid root interference with paved areas.

3. Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)

• Why it works - Compact and ornamental, with pink spring blossoms and heart-shaped leaves.

• Perfect for - Adding charm near outdoor seating areas or water features.

• Eco-perk - Supports native bees and other pollinators.

4. Chinese Pistache (Pistacia chinensis)

• Why it works - Drought-tolerant, pest-resistant, and low-maintenance once established.

• Perfect for - Sustainable landscaping in warmer, drier climates.

• Visual bonus - Stunning red-orange foliage in fall.

5. Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum)

• Why it works - Compact root system, sculptural branches, and rich color.

• Perfect for - Smaller backyards or as focal points near fire pits or garden paths.

• Maintenance - Prefers partial shade and occasional pruning.

Placement Tips for Trees Around Pavers

Smart tree placement enhances both the form and function of your outdoor living space. Here’s how to do it right:

• Mind the roots

  Choose trees with non-invasive root systems or plant larger trees at least 10–15 feet away from patios and walkways to protect paver integrity.

• Use mulch and edging

  Create defined planting areas to prevent soil erosion and add a polished look to tree bases.

• Layer for impact

  Mix canopy trees with mid-level shrubs and low groundcovers for depth and visual interest.

• Think through seasons

  Plant trees that offer different seasonal effects—like blooms in spring, shade in summer, and color in fall—for year-round beauty.

Tree Planting Tips for Long-Term Success

A little planning goes a long way when planting trees near your outdoor living features:

• Dig wide, not deep

  A hole that’s two to three times as wide as the root ball encourages healthy root spread.

• Water wisely

  Deep watering helps roots grow down rather than out toward pavers.

• Use organic mulch

  Keeps soil moist, adds nutrients, and helps suppress weeds.

• Stake only if necessary

  Young trees in windy areas may benefit from staking for the first year.

Sustainability Meets Style

Incorporating trees into your outdoor remodel is a beautiful way to support sustainable landscaping while enhancing your home’s livable space. When combined with elements like artificial turf, paver patios, and eco-friendly lighting, trees help create a backyard retreat that’s both functional and planet-friendly.

Whether you're planning a full outdoor renovation or simply adding new life to your yard, these low-maintenance backyard trees are a great place to start.

Ready to Grow Something Great? At System Pavers, we design outdoor spaces that are made to last, and made to love. From paver patios and driveways to outdoor kitchens, water features to fire pits, turf, and so much more, we’ll help you build a space that grows with your lifestyle.

Let’s bring your vision to life. Book your free design consultation right here or call us at (877) 728-3778 to schedule.