Everyone can plant a tree, so why not get your spade and dig that hole? Without trees, we wouldn't be able to survive on the planet, so it's crucial there are plenty of trees, and the good news is - there is a tree suitable for any size garden - even for containers. Trees are great for wildlife and the environment and can really bring something special to your garden. With such a huge variety of trees to choose from, you can add colour and texture, flowers, berries and edible fruits to your garden.
Why it's important to plant a tree
Trees not only help to clean the air we breathe and filter the water we drink, but they also are habitats for a vast amount of biodiversity. Many trees are even used in medicines. In your garden, a tree can be home to many insects and birds, plus give interest all year round - even deciduous trees. The leaf fall can be used to make leaf mulch for your garden beds and borders, and all-round, they are necessary.
How to plant a tree
Depending on the maturity of the tree you have bought, it may need support, so check the instructions. Most trees need to be planted in a pre-dug hole larger than the rootball and have the same depth as the pot it is in. Trees will likely need more water when they are younger and establish in their new home. Autumn is a great time to plant trees, allowing them time to establish over winter.
Plant a tree for small spaces
There's no need to feel restricted if you have a small space. There are a lot of trees that will grow well in a small area, including in a large container on a patio and even on a balcony. Like with any planting, no matter what size space, it's essential to ensure your tree is situated where it will most thrive, so think about sun and shade plus the soil pH. Great trees for small spaces include:
- Cornus
- Amelanchier
- Acer
- Smaller Magnolias
- Apple, cherry and plum trees (just check the variety and mature size)
Our favourite trees
With so many to choose from, it depends on the size of your garden and your preference for colour, evergreen or deciduous and much more. It's a very personal choice, but there are a few which we cannot resist!
- Silver birch (Betula pendula)
- Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa)
- Crab apple (Malus sylvestris)
- Elder (Sambucus nigra)
- Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna)
- Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia)
- Goat willow (Salix caprea)
Choose your next tree from our selection in store, plus the tools needed to plant your new tree. Autumn is a great time to plant a tree. You can also choose some colourful flower bulbs from our spring-bulb selection at the garden centre. Underplant your new tree with snowdrops to cover the soil. Please ask our staff if you need any advice on which tree is best for your garden. They're always happy to help!