CREATING HEIGHT IN A SMALL GARDEN

Use a light framework to give height without losing sunlight or blocking the view. Small multi-stemmed trees, such as silver birches (Betula utilis), the Tibetan cherry (Prunus serrula), or Amelanchier

lamarckii, are good choices. Cut off foliage from the lower branches to raise a tree’s canopy and make a feature of the structure and bark. Run climbers such as clematis or trachelospermum up the uprights of pergolas and arches, up walls or fences, or even trees to lift the focus. Consider planting a line of pleached hornbeams or limes to run parallel with the top of a wall.

Plant tall, transparent perennials, such as Verbena bonariensis or miscanthus almost like curtains at the front of a bed to add drama to your planting, or in the middle of a bed to draw the eye inwards and upwards.