When I started my own small garden, one thing I knew I wanted was a tree. But what trees are best for small gardens? Can you even grow trees in small gardens?
Of course the answer is yes, and you should! We need more trees, especially in urban areas where concrete outnumbers plant life. Not only are trees great for wildlife and for using up CO2 through photosynthesis, they also have a whole host of other amazing abilities. Such as reducing noise pollution, soaking it up like a sponge. A bit like when you have carpet down instead of wooden flooring. They also help to control flooding, improve our health and well being and even increase property prices!
I knew that I wanted a tree that both provided for the wildlife as well as feel at home in my small urban garden. Anything too big would simply overpower the rest of the space. I also wanted a tree that gave interest throughout the year. For those reasons, I went for a prunus.
Prunus trees are known for their beautiful cherry blossom in the spring time and gorgeous green leaves in the summer months. They also don’t grow too big, making it the perfect addition for my small garden.
What other trees work in small gardens?
- Olive trees
- Silver Birch
- Magnolia
- Crab apple
- Acer
- Ornamental Cherry
Will a tree work in my small garden?
Take a look at your space first. Think about the sun, where you like to sit, what kind of planting you have. Tree’s offer height and also dappled shade, making it possible to grow a huge group of exciting plants. They will also bring in a lot of wildlife, so if you love listening to the birds, a tree might be for you!
You don’t necessarily have to stick with one tree either! Silver birch trees work well in groups or as a natural privacy screen. Or how about growing a multi stem tree such as a magnolia?
How to care for a tree
When I planted my tree, I dug a hole a bit bigger than the pot it was in. I then enriched the soil with multi purpose peat free compost before planting it up. Then I made sure to stake it so that the small trunk didn’t snap or get damaged while it was still growing. Trees will have to stay staked for a couple of years until the roots are strong and the trunk is a little thicker.
I hope this post inspires you to plant a tree in your garden as part of your next garden project!
Which variety of prunus is yours?