Welcome to NGA, CrystalIvy! I'm going to suggest that you call the Travis County Extension Office and ask for the Master Gardener desk. Let them know you are looking for small tree selections, and request the landscaping booklet that they send out. (I know that Home Depot and Lowe's usually have the landscape books at the registers). They are free. 'Have colored photos and suggestions of what to plant and where. They will be more helpful than I can be. I only have the smaller Hell strips in front of our sidewalk, filled with salvias and assorted verbenas, etc. You can request any "how to plant" handouts that you like. They will send them to you within the week. They are very helpful. I used to work the phones as a Master Gardener ( back in the Stone Age)!
You will be surprised at how helpful and knowledgeable the folks that answer the phones are. Be sure and let them know about the power lines that cross the area.
Do you know that you can get mulch for free at the city dump? Looks like you have quite a job in front of you, but I'm sure it will be beautiful when you get it finished. You're doing it the right way! Keep checking in and showing us your progress.
Travis County Extension Office
512-854-9600
