Tree & Shrub Planting · Lincoln, NE

Species selected for zone 5b. Planted right.

The right tree in the wrong spot fails. The right tree planted too deep fails. We select species that perform in Nebraska's climate and plant them correctly. Purple ash, bur oak, flowering crab, ornamental grasses. Built to last through May and October both.

Before After
★★★★★4.5 Google Stars
22Years Family-Owned
A+BBB Accredited Since 2006
Lincoln · Waverly · Hickman & More
What's Included

Planted for the long run.

01

Species selection for your site

We recommend trees and shrubs based on your soil, sun exposure, mature size, and Nebraska's climate zone. Not what's on sale at the nursery. What actually grows here.

02

Site and soil assessment

We check drainage and soil type before choosing species. Planting the wrong tree in the wrong spot is worse than not planting at all. We know Lincoln's soil conditions.

03

Proper planting depth

The root flare must be at or slightly above grade. Planting too deep is the #1 cause of tree failure, and it's completely avoidable. We measure and set correctly every time.

04

Soil amendment and backfill

Amended backfill gives new roots a better establishment environment in Lincoln's clay-heavy soil. Not just dig the hole and dump it back in.

05

Mulch ring installation

A 3-inch mulch ring extending to the drip line retains moisture, moderates soil temperature, and protects the root zone during the critical establishment period.

06

Written care instructions

Every planting gets written care and watering guidance. We tell you what to watch for in the first season, when to fertilize, and what healthy establishment looks like.

Why Creative Landscaping

We pick what survives Nebraska.

Zone 5b species selection

We design for how plants perform in Lincoln's climate year-round, not just for appearance in May. If it can't survive a Nebraska winter, we won't recommend it.

Depth matters. We measure.

Root flare at or above grade. Every time. Planting too deep is responsible for more tree failures than drought, pest, or disease combined. It's an easy fix we never skip.

Part of a larger design or standalone

Tree and shrub planting can be part of a full landscape design or a standalone planting project. We handle both. You get the same site assessment and species selection either way.

What Lincoln Homeowners Say

Real results. Real neighbors.

★★★★★

“Creative Landscaping completely transformed our home. Tyler was awesome to help create 3 phases of our project — starting small with rock and plants around the perimeter, then adding trees to our back fence line to create more privacy, and eventually adding a paver patio. Booking time with them was super easy, they were kind and respectful, and provided top notch service. I had a few plants that struggled and they caught it and replaced them before I could even reach out. Don’t waste your time getting multiple bids, just hire Creative Landscaping.”

N
Nick S. Google Review
3-Phase Design & Patio · Lincoln, NE
★★★★★

“We love everything about this company — the way all our landscaping turned out, people walk by and say it looks amazing! From the people at the office to the young man who put our landscaping in, so knowledgeable and kind. We had a plan when we moved in, we liked it so much we just kept adding. Definitely a company you need to look up!”

C
Cindy B. Google Review
Landscape Installation · Lincoln, NE
★★★★★

“So glad I chose these guys! Everyone I dealt with was awesome. They put in a new retaining wall for me, fixed all the low spots in the yard, then did some sod and seeding and my flag pole for me. I still did go out and get 3 quotes. They came out in the middle but the experience I had during the quote was by far better than the others, and along with a recommendation from a friend, I chose them. Thank you all at Creative Landscaping for all you did.”

A
Adam F. Google Review · Local Guide
Retaining Wall, Sod & Grading · Lincoln, NE
Common Questions

Tree & Shrub Planting FAQs

What trees grow best in Lincoln, NE?
We're in USDA zone 5b/6a. Strong performers include bur oak, honey locust, purple ash, flowering crab, serviceberry, and Kentucky coffeetree. We select for durability in Nebraska's climate first, appearance second.
When is the best time to plant trees in Nebraska?
Fall planting (September through November) is ideal because it lets roots establish before summer heat. Spring (March through May) is also good. Summer planting is possible but requires more consistent watering attention during establishment.
How deep should a tree be planted?
The root flare (where the trunk transitions to roots) should sit at or slightly above final grade. Planting too deep is one of the most common causes of tree failure within 5 years of planting. We set depth correctly on every tree we install.
How long until new plantings look established?
Most trees take 2-3 growing seasons to look fully established. Shrubs are typically 1-2 seasons. We set realistic expectations before you plant and provide written care guidance for the establishment period.
Do you handle removal of existing plants and trees?
Yes. We can remove shrubs, small trees, and overgrown plantings as part of a replanting project. For larger tree removal, we'll recommend appropriate specialists.
Get Started

Ready to plant something that actually lasts?

Tell us what you're working with. We'll assess the site, recommend the right species, and give you a written quote the same day.

Free site and soil assessment
Species selected for Nebraska zone 5b
Written care instructions after every install
Family-owned since 2004
Free Planting Estimate
Start with a free site assessment.

We respond within one business day. No spam, no pressure.

Get Your Free Estimate →