Small Trees for Urban Gardens

A courtyard, townhouse strip or narrow side garden can still hold a proper tree, one that gives you height, seasonal change and a sense of enclosure without swallowing the whole space. This collection is for gardeners working with metres, not acres, who want to choose by mature size first and looks second.

Start with two measurements: the width you can give the canopy and the distance to your nearest boundary or wall. For most urban blocks, a tree maturing at 3 to 6 metres tall with a 2 to 4 metre spread sits comfortably beside living areas and fences. Think about the shadow it will cast too. On a small block a dense evergreen can darken a lawn or a neighbour's window year round, whereas a deciduous choice gives you canopy shade in January and winter sun back in July. If the tree is destined for a large container rather than the ground, allow a pot of at least 50 to 70 litres and expect the tree to stay a size or two smaller than its in ground potential, which is often exactly what a small space needs.

Placement in small gardens rewards a little theatre. A single well shaped tree set off centre reads better than one plonked in the middle, and underplanting with low growers keeps the base from looking bare. Narrow upright forms suit side passages and driveways, while broader vase shaped canopies work as a green ceiling over a seating area. Whatever you choose, dig the hole twice the width of the rootball, no deeper, and stake loosely for the first season only.

Worried about what happens below ground near paving and plumbing? Cross reference this list with our non invasive root trees. If you are repeating one tree along a path or fence line for formal effect, see avenue planting for ideas. The classic compact choice for courtyards is covered in our Japanese maple care guide, and our pot and bag size guide explains exactly what size plant arrives at your door.