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A tree for a small garden

Helen L ThomasHelen L Thomas Posts: 11
in Garden design
Hi
I would like to plant a small tree in my garden which is a small space. I would ideally like something with berries for the birds in the winter. I also wondered if a small shrub would be a good alternative as the space is small?
It is a light area with good soil and good drainage.  Currently there is a patch of lawn, tiny pond / bird bath, small veg patch and boarders with lots of pollinator friendly plants, any suggestions really welcome.
Thank you!

Posts

  • BorderlineBorderline Posts: 4,700
    Take a look at Cotoneaster Cornubia. They make good garden trees. Easily shaped whilst it grows. Semi evergreen too, so can add winter shape. 
  • BobTheGardenerBobTheGardener Posts: 11,385
    edited September 2019
    Also look at amelanchiers, which have flowers, fruit and autumn colour in their leaves.  There are small tree types or ones which grow as multi-stemmed shrubs.  Lovely things.  Some good info. on this page regarding choosing a variety:

    A trowel in the hand is worth a thousand lost under a bush.
  • LoxleyLoxley Posts: 5,698
    Crab apples are also good. Try and go for a disease resistant one
    "What is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbour". 
  • FairygirlFairygirl Posts: 55,117
    Depends what you mean by 'small'   ;)
    I'd agree with @BobTheGardener. Amelanchiers are delightful.
    Another nice one is Pyrus salicifolia pendulus - the weeping, ornamental pear.  :)
    It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....



    I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
  • Helen L ThomasHelen L Thomas Posts: 11
    amelanchiers look like a good option, the garden is fairly small approx 25 foot square so any other ideas welcome thank you! 
  • DovefromaboveDovefromabove Posts: 88,147
    Another vote here for amelanchier ... we love ours 💖 

    Gardening in Central Norfolk on improved gritty moraine over chalk ... free-draining.





  • TopbirdTopbird Posts: 8,355
    Another vote for a crab apple - I like ‘Evereste’.
    Smothered in white blossom in spring and the cherry-sized fruit start to colour up in August. For me, the fruits tend to stay on the tree until the end of Jan / beginning of Feb depending on how hungry the blackbirds and squirrels are.

    The orangey fruits look wonderful against a clear blue sky in winter.

    I use a bit of the fruit for Chr**tm*s decorations but they could also be used to make crab apple jelly. I leave them for the birds.
    Heaven is ... sitting in the garden with a G&T and a cat while watching the sun go down
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