10 TREES FOR SMALL SPACES

Assiduously pruning at the correct times or growing a tree in a pot will help to keep it in check.

1

ACER OR JAPANESE MAPLE There are many small varieties of these attractive deciduous trees, with an autumn leaf display ranging from yellows through to rich reds and plums.

2

BAY The classic choice for a topiary standard. Prune religiously to keep its bushy shape. Laurus nobilis leaves can be used for cooking.

3

CHERRY Beautiful white through to pink scented blossom in spring – choose a variety that won’t grow too large or spread too widely.

4

CRAB APPLE White blossom in spring leads to small reddyorange apples in autumn – good for supporting wildlife.

5

DWARF APPLE Look for varieties that have been grafted on to a rootstock that restricts growth or try Ballerina apples – developed to grow without the need for pruning.

6

JAPANESE WILLOW This pretty and hardy shrub has pink-tinged variegated leaves.

7

MAGNOLIA Planting in a pot will check its growth (fully mature ones can be sprawling). Colours range from white to purple. M. stellata, with pretty white flowers, is a good variety to try.

8

OLIVE An evergreen Mediterranean tree that thrives here although you are unlikely ever to get a mature crop. Can be pruned to a standard shape.

9

ROWAN OR MOUNTAIN ASH Slow-growing native tree with delicate leaves, white blossom in spring and red berries in autumn.

10

TREE FERN Dicksonia antarctica will need protecting from frost but is a striking, slow-growing, evergreen addition to a garden.