Big Tree, Small Space

By Andrew McIndoe

I am often asked to recommend a well-behaved tree for a small garden: understandably gardeners are often afraid of plants that get too big and take over. As a tree will probably be the dominant plant in the average garden, it is bound to be the focus of concern for the cautious. Perhaps the biggest initial challenge is our perception of height and timescale.

Although the ultimate size of a tree is often irrelevant, and one never wants to be the instigator of a problem for those that follow, it is important to gain the benefit from a plant during the time the garden is yours. The most important thing to remember in a small space is that you can extend the planting area by using the vertical space: in other words go up rather than out. A short wide-spreading or weeping tree uses more space than a tall slender or light and airy subject.

Plants in small gardens need to earn their keep, so look for hard-working subjects with more than one season of interest or special feature. Also look for trees that allow underplanting right up to the trunk of the tree. This develops lots of possibilities for exciting planting schemes that will thrive in light shade.

Pyrus calleryana ‘Chanticleer’ is an excellent choice where a compact-headed structure tree is required. The head is slender and conical when young, becoming broader, but remaining compact as the tree matures. A flourish of white blossom in early spring is quickly followed by apple green leaves; these become shining and healthy mid-green as they mature. The foliage turns butter-yellow, or purple tinted in late autumn and remains on the branches well into winter.

Prunus cerasifera ‘Nigra’, the purple-leafed plum, is deservedly widely planted. The purple-black twigs are smothered in a cloud of pink blossom in early spring, followed by copper-coloured leaves that quickly turn to dark plum-purple. The dense, rounded head of branches is a haven for birds and makes this an excellent screening tree. It grows well on any soil, including chalk, and tolerates sheltered coastal conditions.

A flowering tree is a delight when in bloom, but the beauty of many trees grown for their blossom is short lived so it is important to choose carefully. Malus ‘Evereste’ is an excellent flowering crab. The branches are wreathed in pink buds that open to fragrant, white, apple-blossom flowers in mid-spring. The foliage is healthy and remains so throughout the year. In autumn the branches are hung with attractive orange fruits that persist after the leaves have fallen. Malus ‘Rudolph’ is a lovely Canadian variety. The fragrant, deep mauve-pink flowers in spring are followed by orange-yellow fruits in autumn. These, too, persist well into winter.

Amelanchier x grandiflora ‘Ballerina’ is a delightful small tree with a graceful framework of branches. The new leaves are copper-coloured, unfurling in early spring just as the starry white flowers appear in profusion. The leaves turn rich shades of flame and orange in autumn. Often recommended for neutral to acid soils, this tree grows on most reasonably fertile soils if organic matter is added.

Birches grow quickly and look good from an early age. Their light filigree of branches and wonderful bark are attractive features do draw the eye away from less desirable aspects such as neighbouring buildings. Their small leaves and open habit cast light, dappled shade on the ground beneath, even when they reach a considerable height. Betula utilis var. jacquemontii ‘Jermyns’ is ultimately a larger tree suited to the medium sized garden. The white bark contrasts with the dark green foliage in summer and is a striking feature in the winter garden. Long golden catkins drape the branchlets in spring. Careful thinning of the branches when the tree is young allows more light and rainfall to pass through the crown to plants beneath; this makes it suitable for a smaller space.

We are able to offer the above mentioned larger trees direct from our Hampshire Nursery. Many other varieties are available. Prices quoted will include delivery during the specified areas during October and November at a time convenient to the customer.

Tree Stakes?

All trees need staking securely: we can supply two round stakes + tie and planting instructions for £15.00 with your order

* Delivery area: Hampshire, Wiltshire, Somerset, Dorset, West Sussex, East Sussex, Surrey, Berkshire, Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Warwickshire, Northamptonshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire and Greater London.

For both offers you can order direct via our online shop, or for a quote for delivery outside of these areas please contact Mark Pitman at markpitman@hillier.co.uk