Specimen Trees

by Johnson's Nursery

Specimen Trees

At Johnson’s Nursery, we describe specimen trees as large or high profile plants that are specifically grown onto larger sizes because they display outstanding characteristics like phenomenal color, shape, or branching. A large shade tree brings instant gratification to a home or commercial landscapes. These plants are growing at our nursery for years longer than average because of their undeniable appeal, whether they are gnarled, showy, squat, gigantic, rare, graceful, or just plain odd.

These plants require a higher level of project management and larger machinery. Mature trees are heavy and often require massive machinery to transplant. All these efforts are to protect the health of the tree. We are proud of our success rate in large tree transplants and installations. We frequently partner with our wholesale clients on these high profile projects.

Inventory & Costs

The costs are based on the tree and logistics of the project. We have a variety of large trees at our Menomonee Falls and Jackson farm locations. Johnson’s Nursery can manage the project completely (or partially) and professionally to ensure the long-term success of the tree. Warranty details are also situational.

Pricing & Availability

Wholesale & Contractor Sales
Contact your sales rep for
access to our Wholesale Availability.

Homeowners & Landscape Clients
Please visit our Public Inventory.

We may also source plants not listed in inventory

Specimen Tree Supply & Delivery

Johnson’s Nursery has the equipment and capability to supply and transplant large shade trees and beautiful evergreens in any size. We can also provide transportation of these large, heavy trees. The equipment we use depends on several situations, such as the size of the tree and access to the planting site.

Grow/Supply Large Plants
Spade Harvesting
Expert Drum Lacing

Semi/Transportation
Large Machinery
Experienced Crewmen

Horticultural Expertise
Project Management
Plant Installation

Specimen Trees in Landscape Design

Not all specimen trees are grand in size. From the Latin specere (“to look”), they may be the focal point in a landscape or garden design. It could be noteworthy because of its size, species, flower, bark, form, or rarity. Topiaries are among the most flamboyant trees (Note, Johnson’s Nursery does not grow/sell topiary trees). Often, particularly in larger landscapes, sizable specimen trees are what make the biggest impact.

Which works best for your landscape? That’s a site-specific question. Typically, we’d ask, “What do you want the tree to do?” Some clients simply want to make a statement. Others are looking to shade their house to reduce cooling costs. Horticultural appropriateness is vital to specimen tree selection. Other considerations must be given to time, labor, and cost involved in the process of moving larger trees.

When is the best time to plant a tree? 1) 20 years ago. 2) Right now. But with large trees and evergreens, you can eat your cake and have it at the same time.