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Small trees for a new garden

KitMillerKitMiller Posts: 42
in Problem solving
I have a small 'blank canvas' garden in a new build property. Size is 6.7m x 10.5m.
I want to have at least one tree and have a sunny corner; for maximum impact for as much of the year as possible I think my best bet would be crab apple tree 'Laura' for a small space - after lots if internet research. The soil is clay / loam. Would there be any other options I could consider?

I have another spot which is shady - is there another small tree I could consider - or is one enough in such a small space?

Thanks for any help

Posts

  • FairygirlFairygirl Posts: 55,117
    Hi Barbara, something many of us recommend here is Amelanchier lamarckii. It's technically a shrub, but can be grown as a little tree, simply be pruning lower stems/branches, and keeping a 'leader'. Great for spring and autumn as it has nice blossom, and then good colour later. Nice light canopy, so doesn't create a lot of shade in a smaller space. Unfussy and suits most soils and aspects. That would actually be fine in your shadier area too  :)
    Birches are also good - light canopy, nice bark on many of them. It would depend on how much maintenance you want to have, as eventually they get quite large, but most are fairly easy to maintain, and there are various types readily available.  
    The colourful Eonymous alatus is also very pretty. It's biggest feature is the fabulous autumn colour, so it's not the most exciting thing in the world for the rest of the year. A bit of sun highlights the colours even more, so if your sunny spot is something you can see from most of the garden, and from inside the house, it could be ideal. Again - pretty straightforward inmost locations.
    The Rowans [Sorbus] are always a good bet. Lots of types, as well our lovely native one,  with different berries for autumn, and spring blossom. Again, very straightforward, with very few issues affecting them. Like Amelanchier, great for wildlife because of the berries and blossom. 
    With any of these trees, a carpet of spring bulbs under them is a great asset  :)
    It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....



    I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
  • RubytooRubytoo Posts: 1,630
    Fairygirl already mentioned my first choice (Amelanchier). There is a reason why they are popular (ha ha) they are brilliant.
    I am not being very helpful but had to say your choice of crab apple is beautiful Barbera. Both the blossoms and fruit, if the pictures online are true to colour that maroon fruit is lovely.  Good Luck with your new garden.
  • KitMillerKitMiller Posts: 42
    Hi

    Thats great, thank you. I like all of those suggestions after looking them up. I might go for the Amelanchier. 

    Many thanks for your help and advice
  • KitMillerKitMiller Posts: 42
    Thank you both Fairygirl and Rubytoo for your support. I've been limited to weeding existing beds before and container gardening so this is a new thing for me.
  • FairygirlFairygirl Posts: 55,117
    If you can post a few pix Barbara - that really helps for advice and suggestions  :)
    Getting the initial structural planting is often the best way to start too.
    Take your time and sketch a few ideas out on a bit of paper - to a reasonable scale. Makes it easier to decide on the various areas you want and need.  :)
    It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....



    I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
  • AnniDAnniD Posts: 12,585
    edited September 2018
    Glad you are going for the Amelanchier, Barbara . We have one in our garden that's coming up to 30 years old, and the leaves are turning a lovely shade of red.
  • KitMillerKitMiller Posts: 42
    Not very inspiring currently... The left hand side along the fence and the back wall with the half fence on top get the most sun - this is where the raised bed would be. I think I am going to cover the back wall / fence with a bamboo screen. The garden is on a slight slope. The right hand wall is in deep / permanent shade. The garden is north east facing. 
  • josusa47josusa47 Posts: 3,530
    edited September 2018
    Which means the opposite wall faces south west, perfect for training fruit trees against it. Or even a grape vine.  Elsewhere on the forum, there are suggestions for reducing plastic waste.  Homegrown fruit and veg need need no packaging.
  • KitMillerKitMiller Posts: 42
    Hi
    The trouble is its a small house and the opposite wall has a window, patio and french doors.   That area of the house doesn't get that much sun either as its obscured by other buildings.  There is no direct sunlight coming into the living room. I have only tracked the path of the sun from the house, I've yet to do it from the other end of the garden to see what sun really gets onto the patio but I dont think it will be a lot.  

    thanks
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