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Branching Out: Adding A Tree To Your Garden

Thinking about adding a tree to your garden? This guide explains the basics of planting a tree and some of the important things you should consider.

The benefits of trees

There are many benefits to planting a tree in your garden:

  • Firstly, trees provide oxygen. They can help to combat air pollution in your local area.
  • They can help to attract and support local wildlife such as birds and squirrels.
  • Trees can be used to provide shade, giving you somewhere to cool off in your garden.
  • A well-placed tree could also provide privacy from neighbours or passers-by.
  • Trees may even improve curb appeal and the value of your home.

Where to plant it?

A tree could be planted outside the front of your home or at the back of your home. In either case, you should avoid placing it near a wall or structure – especially if it is likely to become a large tree. As it grows, you want there to be enough room for roots and branches to grow without disrupting your walls or foundations. You may also want to talk to your neighbours about planting a tree if you think it might cast a shadow into their garden or block their view.

What type of tree?

There are so many different types of trees. Think about your purpose for getting a tree and the location that you’d like to put it. Columnar trees such as cypresses and arborvitae are very narrow and suitable for tight spaces, while dwarf trees won’t grow too high making them suitable for low fenced gardens. Alternatively, if you have a lot of space and don’t have to worry about neighbours, you could opt for something bigger.

Evergreen trees will stay green all year round, while deciduous trees lose their leaves in autumn. This is something to factor in when choosing a tree – generally speaking, evergreen trees are easier to care for, however deciduous trees can be more exciting due to their seasonal transformation. 

Low-maintenance trees can be better for new tree owners. Consider trees that don’t require too much trimming back or cleaning up after. If you’ve already got trees, then you may be up for the challenge of something a bit higher maintenance such as an oak or a honey locust tree.

How to plant your tree

Most people plant trees while they are still relatively small. This is a lot easier than planting a large fully-grown tree, which will likely need to be transported and handled by professionals.

You’ll need to dig a large enough hole when planting a tree. This should be as deep as the roots and three times the diameter of the root system. Before putting the tree in the hole, soak the roots in water for about 30 minutes. If you’re taking a tree out of a pot to plant into the ground, make sure the soil in the pot has been watered regularly beforehand. When filling the hole, make sure to use appropriate soil (certain trees may prefer certain soil – look into this before planting). 

 

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