Garden Table Under a Tree: Which Size for Which Crown Width
A garden table in the shade of a tree is a popular spot in summer. But how large can the table be to ensure it is truly protected and not half in the sun? Many underestimate how much the shaded area shifts throughout the day. The right size depends on the crown width, the time of day and the height of the tree.
Crown Width as a Starting Point
Crown width is best measured at midday, when the sun is high and the shadow is smallest. For most deciduous trees, the usable shaded area is approximately 60 to 70 percent of the crown width. A tree with a crown diameter of four metres therefore casts around 2.5 to 2.8 metres of shade at midday. In the morning and evening, the shadow becomes longer but also narrower because the sun is at a lower angle.
Table Size in Relation to Shade
For a rectangular table, the following applies: the longer side should be a maximum of 60 percent of the crown width to ensure the table remains completely in the shade even at midday. For a crown of four metres, that would be 240 centimetres table length. Those who want to be on the safe side should plan with 50 percent. Round tables can be positioned more flexibly, but also require a buffer because the crown rarely grows evenly.
Distance from Trunk and Root Area
The table should be positioned at least one metre away from the trunk to prevent damage to the roots and to provide sufficient space for chairs. For shallow-rooted trees such as birch or maple, a distance of 1.5 metres is advisable. Heavy Garden Furniture should not remain permanently in the same spot, as this compacts the soil and disrupts the oxygen supply to the roots.
Material and Maintenance Under Trees
Under trees, leaves, blossoms, resin and bird droppings accumulate. Wooden tables made of teak or acacia are robust but require regular maintenance with oil. Metal rusts in moisture if the coating is damaged. Plastic or powder-coated aluminium is easy to maintain but can be scratched by falling branches. A weatherproof cover protects the table during the off-season.
Flexible Solutions for Changing Light Conditions
Those who wish to move the table according to the position of the sun should choose a lightweight model or a folding table. Alternatively, the shaded area can be extended with a parasol if the crown is insufficient. When selecting suitable Garden Furniture, Stoves and Decoration, autumn use should also be considered: without leaves, more light falls through, but the crown provides protection from light rain.
Reference Values for Common Tree Species
A mature apple tree usually has a crown width of three to four metres, a walnut tree reaches five to six metres. For the apple tree, a table up to 180 centimetres in length is suitable, under the walnut tree up to 300 centimetres is possible. Young trees are still growing, so it is worthwhile to reassess the size every two years and adjust the furnishings accordingly.
Related items: Garden Fountains, Chairs, Display Cabinets. baroque mirrors. The complete range: Baroque Furniture.
Related categories: Garden Fountains, Chairs, Display Cabinets. The full range: Baroque Furniture.
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