Dear Abi,

I was rather impressed by the size of your lot and see so much potential. There are a few more things you need to provide. For example what is the orientation of your yard North, East, South and West. Is there a fence and if so, which area is the darkest areas and which is the brightest? Do you have a favorite window or door to look out on to? Take pictures of your yard from that viewpoint and print it out. Then draw trees on that photo and see if you like that view. This is how you can stir up your imagination to see where you would like to have trees. Next try to decide how tall the trees you would like to see. Then decide on the shape of the tree -- broom style crown, or conical or irregular shaped tree. So once you have an idea on height, and shape of trees, we can then ID what are your options. You can certainly ask the members here once you have figured that out.

As for mapping out a plan -- If you were to approach garden centres, like Sheridans the cost for a plan is around $100 which will be deducted from the costs if you choose to hire their landscaper.

You could separate the garden vegetable beds from the main part of the yard. Vegetable gardens out to be in the brightest parts of hte yard and therefore it wouldn't be a good idea to plant trees nearby which will cast shadows and compete with plants for water and nutrients.

Also if you check online readymade landscaping plans like Better Homes and Garden you can get some inspiration.