Evergreen or deciduous?

Deciduous trees are not necessarily a bad choice just because they shed copious autumn leaves. Neville Orsmond advises: • A deciduous tree is always a good option as your home will be cool in summer yet the tree will let in sun and light in winter. These trees add seasonality to a garden; just think of the breathtaking colour spectacle in autumn and dramatic framework in winter – not to mention the first delicate buds that make their appearance at the start of spring. However, don’t plant a deciduous tree near a swimming pool – you won’t be thrilled with all those leaves in the water! • Evergreen trees should be planted further away from the house. They’re more suitable as screens where you need privacy or shelter all year round. Remember, most grasses, even kikuyu, will battle to grow beneath an evergreen tree.