Beginner Gardening: Need help picking a tree, 0 by Diana_K

Diana_K wrote:
Stand back a bit and get a picture that includes the eaves.
Then start drawing on it, either in a program like Paint, or on paper.

When you have drawn the right size tree that looks good near the house (but not too close) you can tell what size tree you want.

A few round blobs can represent shrubs. Again, compare what you have added to the surroundings (a car, a person, or even counting bricks on the house) so you can see what size shrub you want.

You could also extend the retaining wall, make the area closer to level so it is easier to water.