Knowing which trees to plant is a surefire way to begin if you want to beautify your garden and help save our planet. Ideally, the world needs more trees. Trees help in the fight against climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide from the air and turning it into oxygen for us to breathe.
Furthermore, tree planting can help prevent soil erosion as the root system stabilizes the earth. Trees also attract wildlife, providing food and shelter for many species, from the tiniest insects to birds to larger mammals, such as badgers. Flowering trees also provide valuable nectar for bees, butterflies, and pollinators.
When you plant trees in your garden, you without the expense of fencing your property. Of course, that’s not all the benefits of planting new trees, but you’ll agree it’s enough to start discovering which trees to plant in your garden.
Why It’s Essential To Know Which Trees To Plant
Planting a tree in the garden doesn’t have to be a massive project. You may be surprised at how simple tree planting and care can be. Choosing a tree can be more complicated than planting it!
When selecting trees for your home garden, consider the local climate, soil type, available space, and your specific preferences. Choosing trees that will thrive in your environment is essential to maximize their benefits.
Furthermore, planting trees in your home garden is a holistic investment beyond aesthetics. It positively impacts the environment, enhances your property, promotes emotional well-being, and offers numerous practical advantages.
Moreover, considering local climate, soil conditions, and available space is crucial in selecting trees that will thrive and maximize their benefits in your specific environment.
Choosing the Perfect Tree for Your Garden
Just like gardens, trees come in all shapes and sizes. From small patio trees to sprawling oak trees – there is a tree to suit your garden. The tricky part is narrowing down your options. When choosing a tree, consider the following:
How much space do you have?
Bear in mind the tree will grow and spread its roots. So ensure you have the space to accommodate its eventual height and spread.
How fast do you want the tree to grow?
Depending on the species, trees grow at different rates. You may prefer a slow-growing tree you can keep in a container without re-potting it yearly. Alternatively, you may crave a tree with the quickest growth rates to fill the space as soon as possible.
Do you want an evergreen or deciduous tree?
Both have their merits. Evergreens provide year-round color and interest, while deciduous trees often have more interesting foliage. Some bear spring blossoms and awesome autumn colors, too.
What are the soil conditions like?
Some trees thrive in heavy soils that retain plenty of moisture, while others prefer well-draining soil. It’s also worth considering the pH of your soil to see if it’s suitable for your preferred tree.
How much light does your garden get?
South-facing gardens are perfect for sun-worshiping trees, while shade lovers prefer a north-facing spot. The key to successfully planting trees is to choose the right tree for the right place. Furthermore, research to find a tree that won’t outgrow its space and is likely to thrive in its environment
Five of the Best Trees to Plant In Your Garden
Look no further if you still need inspiration to pick the perfect tree for your outdoor space. Check out this list for some of the most popular, easy-to-grow, and eye-catching trees to grow in British gardens.
Apple Tree
Arguably the most common fruit tree found in gardens across the UK, apple trees are easy to grow and produce a reliable crop of fresh fruit year after year. Myriad varieties are available, so you’re sure to find one that suits your outdoor space – and your taste buds.
Apple trees bear pretty spring blossoms before the leaves emerge from late spring. The crunchy, juicy fruit is ready to harvest from autumn.
Plant during the dormant season from autumn to spring. Choose a dry day when the ground is soft to ensure the roots can settle into their new home. Water the tree well for the first year or so.
As native trees mature, apple trees are undemanding and only need watering during particularly dry spells. Annual light pruning is enough to keep apple trees in tip-top shape with a reliable crop.
Magnolia Tree
Magnolia is another tree with plenty of options to choose from. It comes in several sizes, from compact to large, eye-catching varieties for those with more space. Most spring-flowering magnolia trees are deciduous and, depending on the variety, produce masses of spring blossom or showy summer flowers, usually in various shades of white and pink.
Magnolias can reach up to 100 years old, so it makes sense to put some time and thought into picking a beautiful tree to be enjoyed by future generations.
Magnolia trees have pretty shallow roots, perfect for adding height to borders and flower beds. They can also get planted relatively close to the house. Ideally, you can plant magnolias in autumn or spring in the ground that isn’t disturbed too often.
Spring flowers experience damage by frost, so choose a summer blooming variety for planting in colder parts of the country. Additionally, water newly planted magnolias regularly for the first two years, keeping the soil moist but well-drained.
Japanese Maple
Also known as Acer trees, Japanese maples are a popular choice for smaller garden spaces. These compact, slow growers are available in various colors, from cheerful gold and green to dramatic pink and purple hues. As you might imagine, they produce a stunning show of color during autumn before becoming dormant for winter. Even during the coldest months, the stems of red and purple trees offer plenty of height and color interest.
Japanese maples can be planted in the ground to complement borders but also work well as a standalone statement tree in the center of the lawn. Acers grow well in pots and containers and are ideal for brightening patios and paved areas. Remember that trees planted in pots need watering more often than in the ground, especially in dry summers with little to no rain.
Generally, yellow and green Japanese maples need shade to protect their leaves from sun scorch. However, the pink, red, and purple varieties cope well in full sun. These eye-catching small trees have shallow roots that like to spread, so don’t position them too close to other plants.
Silver Birch
Planting trees can seem rather daunting. However, that isn’t the case with the silver birch. Renowned for being easy to plant and care for, silver birches provide plenty of visual interest.
This deciduous tree with papery bark reveals the silvery-white hues inside, even during the winter months. Ideally, it produces catkins in spring and autumn; the triangular, toothed, mid-green leaves turn an attractive shade of golden yellow. These medium-sized trees have a graceful appearance, taking on a weeping shape as they mature.
Silver birches thrive in most soil types, coping well in poor soils and occasional waterlogging. They prefer a bright spot in full sun or partial shade and tolerate air pollution, making them ideal for urban gardens.
Holly
Instantly recognizable by its spiny green leaves and bright red berries, Holly is an incredibly popular evergreen. Holly is a versatile tree that looks just as good trained into a lollipop shape for the patio as it does when left to grow to its impressive natural height of up to 15m. (Larger varieties can get pruned to keep them a manageable size.)
Ilex aquifolium is a native holly tree variety, and, as such, it is undemanding and easy to care for. Furthermore, it reaches an ultimate height of up to 4m. Moreover, This species is ideal for gardens and smaller spaces. Small white flowers appear in spring, followed by bright red berries on female plants. The berries remain in place throughout autumn and winter, providing a valuable food source for birds and other native wildlife.
Holly grows well in almost any soil type, providing it is kept moist but well-drained. It thrives in full sun or partial shade and is hardy to even the harshest UK winter temperatures.
Step-By-Step Tree Planting Guide – Trees To Plant Make Easy
Step 1
Dig a hole to the same depth and 2-3 times wider than the tree’s root ball. Loosen the soil around the hole to give the tree roots plenty of room to grow.
Step 2
Remove the tree from its pot or wrapping and inspect the root system.
Step 3
Cut away any damaged roots and gently separate and straighten the remaining roots. (Skip this step if you’re planting a magnolia tree, as they don’t like their hearts disturbed.)
Step 4
Place the tree in the hole and check it is straight. Ask someone to hold the tree in place to ensure it stays upright.
Step 5
Check the roots aren’t too deep – the top of the roots and the base of the trunk should be level with the soil surface – and start filling the hole with fresh soil and compost.
Step 6
Use your foot to press down on the fresh soil around the tree to eliminate air pockets in the soil.
Step 7
If necessary, secure the tree to a stake for support and to prevent it from being damaged by strong wind.
Step 8
Water the tree thoroughly, ensuring you water above the whole root system, and add mulch to the area surrounding the tree.
Trees To Plant – In Conclusion
Apart from tangible advantages, trees’ emotional and psychological well-being benefits are noteworthy. Being in a natural environment with trees has been linked to stress reduction and improved mental well-being. The sense of tranquility and connection to nature that trees provide can significantly contribute to your overall quality of life.
For those interested in sustainable living, planting fruit and nut trees in your garden can offer a direct source of fresh produce. Additionally, trees attract birds and wildlife, creating a dynamic and lively ecosystem within your immediate surroundings. Their root systems help prevent soil erosion and promote soil stability, contributing to the overall health of your garden.
Furthermore, the educational opportunities presented by trees are valuable. Watching trees grow and change throughout the seasons can be a learning experience for children and adults, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Finally, choosing native or climate-appropriate trees in your garden can aid in climate adaptation, making your garden more resilient to local weather conditions.
In conclusion, is a holistic investment beyond mere aesthetics. It positively impacts the environment, enhances your property, promotes emotional well-being, and offers numerous practical advantages. Considering local climate, soil conditions, and available space is crucial in selecting trees that will thrive and maximize their benefits in your specific environment.
Enjoy your outdoor space today and choose some trees to plant to create decades of beautiful outdoor space—everyone in your life will enjoy and benefit from them.
