Planting trees in your garden is a great project to take on this summer, but it can be an overwhelming one, especially if you have no idea what you’re doing. Luckily, choosing the right tree doesn’t have to be that difficult. This blog will walk you through some of the factors you need to consider before jumping into any decision – helping you to make the best choice for both you and your garden.
Purpose of the tree
Trees can have lots of different purposes in your garden, so you need to figure out exactly why you want one. For example, if you want to use trees to make your space more private, you’ll want to choose an evergreen tree. These trees will always have lots of leaves or pine needles to shield you from prying eyes. However, if you want a tree to look beautiful and act as a decorative or ornamental part of your garden, then these graceful Japanese maple trees are perfect for the job.
Size of your garden
Not all gardens are big enough to accommodate trees, no matter how much you may want one. Even if you think you have the space for a tree, be sure to take some measurements and do some research into the type of tree you have your eye on. Some trees have large root networks, which could impact the rest of your garden or even any outbuildings you may have. If you don’t think you have space for a tree, choose a large shrub or hedge instead.
Care and maintenance
Some trees require specialist care, while others can be left to flourish on their own without much interference. Think about how much time you have and whether you’re willing to constantly prune and maintain your tree. If you’re new to gardening and don’t have a lot of confidence in your skills, it may be better to stick to a robust tree, such as a crab apple, to reduce the risk of something going wrong. If your tree starts to die, it can be costly to have it removed and subsequently replaced. Always choose a tree you know you can handle.
Soil and climate
It goes without saying that not every tree will be able to thrive in every part of the world. If you have your heart set on a particular type of tree but you know it won’t take to the climate where you live, it’s best to give it a miss. In terms of soil, you may be able to adjust its pH to suit the tree you want to buy. However, this can be a big job and it’s important to consider whether it’s worth the effort. There will be lots of trees out there that are compatible with your garden – don’t forget to check them out first.
Trees can seem like a significant ordeal to start off with, but once your tree is planted, you’ll be able to enjoy the shade it provides in the summer and gaze in wonder at its colors in the spring and autumn.
