Our orange tree was doing very badly and we were always worried about the leaves blocking the gutter and downspout which is our responsibility in the front yard area. They don't allow trees to be planted in this area anymore. It really is too small for trees. So, we had a landscaper come and take the tree down and also put weed blocker material down in the soil areas and put small pebbles down. The brand of pebble we picked was called "Palm Springs Gold". We love the result and there are lots of citrus trees in the common areas. We had the even smaller back area cleaned up and "pebbled" as well. It took a ton and a half of these small stones!
We can always add some garden and wall ornaments and flower pots but we're rather enjoying the minimal look at the moment.
The tree took up this whole corner and keep growing over the allowable limit. Given the big roof overhangs (wonderful for the hot weather), not having the tree brings in a lot more light.
