Choosing Garden Trees for Small Places

by Andrew Kelly

Choosing which trees to grow in your garden can be something of a nightmare but, by following a few simple steps, the task can be made far easier. Firstly you need to take a look around the gardens in your area to identify which species grow best and which you think are the most beautiful. There is no better way to see trees than in a mature garden as those on display in a local nursery are usually all bunched together making the decision difficult. You could also get a book about trees from your local library or browse online but you will need to find out if they are suitable for your climate before proceeding.

The most beautiful trees in the garden are usually specimen trees, those types that have good looking blossom or blossom that is sweet smelling. There are other reasons why a tree may be suitable as a specimen tree such as those that bear fruit or those with some kind of architectural qualities such as the corkscrew hazel or a monkey puzzle tree.

If you have enough space to grow more than one tree then you can use them in a number of ways. Of course you can always place a specimen tree at the very center of your yard or garden but, by being a little more adventurous, trees can add extra depth to even the smallest space. Unfortunately if we only have a small space in which to create a garden then we really do need to use our imagination. Some folk choose to create a garden in absolute miniature, others use containers, it really depends on how small the place is. Try to hide sharp corners with a soft tree or shrub. Create extra height towards the rear of the garden by placing thin tall trees and climbers along your back wall. Try to be imaginative.

Sadly there are not that many trees that are suitable for growing in small spaces as most grow to an enormous size. Luckily there are some really special trees that are superb and it is far better to spend a little extra on one specimen tree rather than purchasing two rather plain ones.

As you are most probably aware there are evergreen trees and deciduous trees. Evergreens keep their leaves in winter deciduous trees don’t. Choosing which one to grow can be difficult as there are advantages and disadvantages to both types.

Evergreens have the obvious advantage of keeping their color but that color is rather limited to shades of green or yellow with only cones to add interest.

Deciduous trees can look rather bare in the winter months, although icicles and frost add interest. Trees such as the corkscrew willow can look wonderful in the winter but only in the architectural sense and no color. The real advantage of deciduous trees is their diversity. There is a multitude of species that offer the most incredible blossoms such as the laburnum (which is highly suitable for growing in small spaces if kept under control) or the flowering cherry. However the down side is that, when the leaves drop, they make a terrible mess!

Before you make your final decisions you should really take the time to draw a plan of your garden or yard and include all obstructions. It is surprising how few people consider such things as overhanging telephone cables when planting trees. In only a few years a tree can grow so much that it could cause damage. Try to ensure that the tree chosen does not grow to such a height as would damage any such things as over hanging roofs or power cables.

When choosing trees for your garden always pay a visit to your local nursery as they will be a fountain of knowledge on the subject and will have vast local experience. Japanese maples look great in any garden but especially in small spaces where they often look their best. Other trees suitable for small spaces are a number of dogwoods and willows (especially the corkscrew willow). Also take a look at the dwarf and miniature conifers but make sure that they are not just slow growing as you might find yourself in serious difficulties later.

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