Choosing a tree for your garden is a pretty big decision. It’s not like buying a new potted plant or planting a few spring bulbs. Once it’s planted, a tree will remain in your garden for many years to come and can completely transform the overall look of your outside space.
If you want to invest in a new tree for your garden but you have no idea what type to choose, then the blog below is just what you need.
Read on to discover four factors to consider when choosing a tree for your garden. Plus, top tips on where and how to plant it.
- What do you want the tree for?
Although this may seem like a silly question, you do need to consider why you want a tree in your garden and what you intend it to do. For example, do you want a tree that will provide shade for you to sit under? Or maybe you want a tree that will attract wildlife to your garden?
There are trees that provide fruit, trees that offer an abundance of colour, and trees that are green all year round. By deciding what you want from your next tree, you’ll be in a much better decision to choose one.
- How much space do you have?
This is one of the most important factors that you need to consider when choosing a tree for your garden as some trees need a lot more space than others.
If you have a small garden or you’re looking for a tree for your front garden, then you’ll want to choose a smaller variety of tree. However, if you have a larger space to work with, then larger trees can provide you with more privacy and help with noise pollution.
Also, think about choosing the right edging for trees based on how much space you have available.
- What style of garden do you have?
The style or theme of your garden will affect the type of tree that you should choose. For example, if you have a typical English garden, you’ll want to choose a tree that compliments this style, such as an apple or pear tree.
However, if you have a tropical or desert-style garden, then a palm tree might be a better choice.
- What type of soil do you have in your garden?
If you don’t know what type of soil you have in your garden, then you need to find this out before you pick a tree. Some trees tolerate heavy clay, whereas others need rich and fertile soil to thrive.
While you can modify the conditions in your garden by improving drainage and adding compost and fertiliser, it’s always a good idea to choose a tree that’s compatible with the type of soil you have.
How to plant a new tree
- Plant your new tree between October and April.
- Avoid planting your new tree in waterlogged or frozen soil.
- Add organic matter to the soil before planting it.
- Use watering aids to stop your new tree from becoming dehydrated.
