Type Of Tree?

Hi

I just wanted to ask if anyone knew what type of tree is best for a small garden.

We have a small garden but would be really nice to get a tree that does not overshadow too much.

Thanks in advance.

Phil

 

I've a small plum tree in mine.
Works a treat

 

Hi there

i hadn't thought of things like pear trees :-D

Thanks, they dont get too big do they?

Cheers

Phil

 

Hi pdragon70,

Choosing a suitable tree for your garden depends on more than just required size. Planting a tree species in the wrong location can lead to huge problems later on. You will also need to consider the soil type, moisture holding ability, available sunlight, shelter from wind and other adverse weather conditions. Can you provide any information regarding the site where you want the tree planted? It sounds a lot to do just to stick a tree in the ground, but if you want the best from it then it really isn't that much to do.

 

As above, If poss can you post a picture of the garden area so we can acess the best option.

 

Along with the proposed distance from the surrounding buildings would be very helpful

 

Whenever I am selecting a new tree, plant, shrub. I list if the birds would like it and find haven there, if it has a fragrance, and if it is three season, or with luck four season. And then if it will go in that area, sun shade, distance from other plants, will it cause undo shade to an established sun area. Will the zone be good. What size will it grow to, how fast, slow? How is its root system, knowing which way the wind blows, can it take the strong winds in the winter. What are its root systems like. Does it like a well drained soil, or can it handle some moist soil. All these things and what Treesurfer and Claire stated, are necessary thoughts to save stress in the future and money. A well thought out garden gives much joy. There are wonderful books out there also, and small tree books to review.
For me its fun, like an adventure to find the unusual, the interesting, not just what everyone has.

 

Hey,

Thanks all for your comments,

Im not to sure what my soil and thats like, its not overly big garden its more narrow, think i need to go through a tree book and have a good long decide.

Cheers

Phil

 

Could I suggest Cotoneaster Cornubia? It can be trained on a single stem. It is technically a large shrub but is perfect for a small tree. Smothered in white flowers in spring/early summer and laden with gorgeous clumps of red berries through out winter. They are so heavy they can pull the branches down to a weeping position.They look stunning when the sun shines on them They are not the birds first choice of berry so they do stay for quite a while. It is semii evergreen You can also train a climbing rose through it for summer interest. This was taken a couple of days ago and has lost some leaves for the winter. It is extremely hardy and will grow in most positions and soil

 

If you only have a small garden consider planting your tree in a large tub that will confine it to a manageable size you can if need be move it with little effort to another location,I underplant mine with pots of annuals or fuchsias gives a nice overall effect.

 

Can I suggest growing something tall and fast growing (eg Jerusalem Artichoke or sunflower) in a pot. You can then place that where you think you want your tree and it will help you to visualise what you want in the way of a tree and where it will be best suited in your plot..

For a narrow garden you don't want something which spreads. For example, a flowering cherry (Kanzan) has a "goblet" shape so you can contain it. You could also get one and keep it in a pot for a year while you try it in various locations.