Timeless! Can be planted throughout the year
The best small trees for a small garden
- Posted on
- By Amitis
Discover the best trees for small gardens. Learn how to choose, the benefits they offer, and explore our top 5 recommended trees that add beauty and structure to your compact outdoor space.
Small Gardens Often Offer Limited Space, But That Doesn't Mean You Can't Plant Trees
On the contrary, the right tree can be a valuable addition to a compact outdoor space, providing privacy, shade, and aesthetic appeal. In this blog, we discuss why trees are perfect for small gardens, what to consider when choosing a tree, the benefits of trees in a small garden, and present our top 5 recommended trees, specially selected for their compact size and visual impact.
The need for trees in a small garden
Even though space is limited, many gardeners crave the benefits that trees provide, such as shade, privacy, and a sense of natural beauty. Trees can serve as the focal point of a small garden, adding height and structure without taking up much ground space. They can also help improve air quality and attract birds and other wildlife.
What should you consider when choosing?
When selecting a tree for a small garden, there are a few important considerations. First and foremost, it's essential to understand the eventual size of the tree and ensure it will fit within the available space. Opt for trees with a compact growth habit and avoid species that grow quickly or require extensive root space. Additionally, it’s important to consider soil conditions, sunlight exposure, and any garden restrictions, such as obstacles or underground pipes.
The benefits of trees in a small garden
Trees offer numerous benefits for small gardens. They can provide privacy by creating a natural barrier against prying eyes from neighbors or passersby. Moreover, they offer cooling shade on hot summer days and can help reduce the ambient temperature. Trees also add structure and visual interest to a garden, creating depth and height.
Our top 5 trees for a small garden
Japanese Dogwood (Cornus kousa)
The Japanese Dogwood, also known as Cornus kousa, is an elegant tree known for its stunning flowers and attractive fruits. This tree thrives in well-drained soil and partial shade, making it suitable for small gardens. It is a slow-growing tree that eventually reaches a height of about 5-8 meters. From late spring to early summer, Cornus kousa produces star-shaped flowers ranging from cream to pink tones. After flowering, strawberry-like fruits appear, turning deep pink in autumn. The foliage turns a beautiful red in the fall before it drops.
Persian Silk Tree (Albizia julibrissin 'Ombrella')
The Persian Silk Tree, also known as Albizia julibrissin 'Ombrella', is an exotic presence in the garden with its elegant leaves and lush flowers. This tree thrives best in a sunny spot with well-drained soil. It can grow to about 5-8 meters high and has a spreading crown that provides shade during the summer months. Albizia julibrissin 'Ombrella' is known for its feathery leaves that close at night, contributing to its nickname "Sleep Tree." In summer, it blooms with fluffy pink flowers that emit a sweet fragrance. This tree is well-suited to dry conditions but needs protection from strong winds and frost in colder climates.
Columnar Dogwood (Cornus kousa 'Flower Tower')
The Columnar Dogwood, Cornus kousa 'Flower Tower', is a vertically growing variety of Cornus kousa. This tree is ideal for small gardens due to its narrow, columnar growth habit and compact size. It reaches a height of about 3-5 meters and is suitable for both sun and partial shade. Cornus kousa 'Flower Tower' blooms in spring with white flowers that stand out against the dark green leaves. After flowering, elegant strawberry-like fruits appear, turning pink-red in the autumn before falling off. This tree requires little pruning and is generally easy to maintain.
Chinese Redbud (Cercis chinensis 'Avondale')
The Chinese Redbud, Cercis chinensis 'Avondale', is a compact ornamental tree perfect for small gardens and patios. It thrives best in well-drained soil and a sunny to lightly shaded location. This tree can reach a height of about 3-4 meters and has a rounded, dome-shaped crown. Cercis chinensis 'Avondale' is known for its abundant spring bloom, where it produces numerous pink-purple flowers along the branches and stems before the leaves emerge. The leaves are heart-shaped and green in summer, turning yellow or orange in autumn. This tree requires little maintenance but may need occasional light pruning to maintain its shape.
Mimosa (Acacia dealbata)
The Mimosa, Acacia dealbata, is an exotic and elegant tree that adds a tropical feel to small gardens. This tree thrives best in well-drained soil and a sunny location. It can reach a height of about 5-10 meters and has an open, rounded crown. Acacia dealbata is known for its feathery leaves that are silver-green and close at night, earning it the nickname "Sleep Tree." In spring, it blooms with fluffy, yellow flowers that spread a delightful fragrance. This tree is reasonably drought-tolerant but may need protection from strong winds and frost in colder climates.
Choose a tree that suits you!
With the right choice of trees, even small gardens can be transformed into green oases of tranquility and beauty. Choose trees that fit your space, taste, and gardening needs, and enjoy the benefits they offer for many years.
Curious which tree best suits your small garden? Check out our full range of trees and get inspired! Contact our expert team for personalized advice and discover how you can transform your outdoor space with a beautiful tree.
