Choosing a tree for your garden, big or small

If you are considering purchasing a tree to plant into your garden, there are several aspects to think about before going ahead and buying one.

Firstly, spend time finding out exactly what soil type you have in your garden – assess the site for shade or sun, as these will both prove to be very useful when choosing a tree. Certain trees will thrive in different types of soil.

Always buy the highest quality of plant you can afford – there is a lot to be said for buying smaller saplings rather than larger, more mature trees that have been grown in pots. Those little saplings will generally survive and establish much more easily in your garden than a tree that is already somewhat developed.

Begin by stripping the area you wish to plant by approximately 1m in diameter. Next, dig a pit which is at least 6 inches wider and deeper than the root system of the tree. If you have a heavy clay soil, you could mix in some organic compounds or compost while planting in.