Five bare root trees and shrubs

Acer palmatum ‘Bloodgood’ AGM

Featuring deeply lobed purple leaves that turn bright-red in autumn, this upright Japanese maple likes a slightly shaded, sheltered position, plus neutural-to-slightly-acidic soil that doesn’t dry out over summer. H&S: 13ft (4m).

Sambucus nigra ‘Aurea’

A form of elder with yellowish foliage. Flattish heads of white summer flowers are followed by bunches of black berries. Perfect at the back of a mixed border; needs semi-shade to prevent scorching. H&S: 8ft (2.5m).

Cornus sericea ‘Flaviramea’ AGM

This ornamental dogwood has small off-white summer flowers, white berries and autumn leaf colour. But the real star is the mass of glossy greenish-yellow stems, which add a shot of winter colour to a sunny spot. Plant in moist but well-drained soil, and prune annually to keep them compact. HxS: 39inx5ft (1x1.5m).

Malus ‘John Downie’

Scented white blossom in spring and showy red and orange plum-shaped fruit that last well into winter make this crab apple a winner. With its upright habit it is very effective as a focal point within a large lawn. HxS: 30x20ft (10x6m).

Euonymus europaeus

Our native spindle features reddish-purple autumn foliage and bubblegum-pink fruit that crack open to reveal glowing orange seeds. Another candidate for the back of the border, it will thrive in all but very damp soil. H&S: 8ft (2.5m).