Big or small?

When buying a tree, keep in mind the size of your garden and the tree’s root system. The smaller the tree, the less impact its root system will have. Large trees such as weeping fig (Ficus benjamina) have a vigorous root system and are only suitable for very big gardens.

The growth habit of a tree is also affected by the climate and conditions in which it grows; check with your nursery whether it’s suitable for your garden and local conditions. Be careful when planting a tree near a boundary wall, swimming pool, paving or underground pipes – make sure that the root system of the tree you’ve chosen won’t damage these structures.