Trees | Garden Trees for Every Space

How to choose garden trees

The FAQs below cover some of the most common buying questions to help you make your choice: best trees for small gardens, differences between bare root and pot grown, soil type considerations, trees for wildlife and how fast ornamental varieties grow.

What are the best trees for a small garden?

The best trees for small gardens are compact or slow-growing varieties suited to the space available. Japanese acers, ornamental cherries, dwarf fruit trees and columnar varieties such as Italian cypress all perform well in limited space. Many can also be grown successfully in large containers on a patio or balcony.

What is the difference between bare root and pot grown trees?

The main difference between bare root trees and pot grown trees is that bare root trees are lifted during dormancy between November and March and despatched without soil, which makes them significantly more economical for larger purchases. Pot grown trees are available year-round and establish quickly in any season, which suits those planting outside the bare root window or needing results faster.

Which trees are best for wildlife?

The best trees for wildlife are native species that provide food, shelter and nesting sites. Hawthorn, crab apple, rowan and field maple all produce flowers, berries or seeds that support birds and insects across the seasons. Native trees planted in combination deliver significantly greater ecological value than single-species planting.

Do trees grow well in clay soil?

Yes, many trees grow well in clay soil. Hornbeam, hawthorn, alder and some ornamental cherries all tolerate heavy conditions. Improve drainage at planting by incorporating organic matter and grit into the planting hole, and avoid compacting the soil around the roots.

How long does it take for an ornamental tree to establish?

Most ornamental trees put on visible growth in their first full season after planting. Bare root trees typically match pot grown specimens in active growth by the end of summer. Faster-growing species such as Betula (birch) and Amelanchier establish quickly; slower growers like acer take longer but reward patience with exceptional autumn colour.