Is there anything more quintessentially British than having a mature, well cared for garden? It’s something that we pride ourselves on and there are so many different varieties of colourful trees, shrubs and plants that can turn any outdoor space into a mini Garden of Eden. But every garden, border or planting scheme needs a focal point. Something which draws the eye and is the crowning glory. Very often ornamental garden trees fulfil this roll.

Always attractive, often very colourful and usually a plant which provides all year-round interest ornamental trees will be a wonderful addition to any garden. And, with most being fairly easy to grow, hardy and low on maintenance they can be successfully grown by any home gardener.

What is an ornamental garden tree?

An ornamental tree is one that is grown purely for its aesthetic value. Gardeners will grow them just because they look amazing in the outdoor space. So, we’re not talking about fruit trees here – even though they can look spectacular. In this article we’re looking at ornamental trees of which there are many different varieties. What makes them attractive could be equally as different.

There are those that are stunning because of the way they flower, their foliage or because of their unique shape.

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The great thing is that ornamental trees have different growth patterns and can be controlled so there is usually scope for at least one in most gardens, if not more.

While there are an incredible number of ornamental tree types, some of the most common include the flowering cherry or crab apple, weeping willow, and the ever-popular Acer. We’ll all have our favourites of course and you can see all the ornamental garden trees we currently have in the nursery by clicking here.

Why are ornamental trees great for gardeners?

When you are creating your picture-perfect garden, you will of course bring a lot of different elements together carefully considering plant height, colour and spread. Ornamental trees will come into your thinking and are one of the most important elements as an tree will bring a whole planting scheme together. But why is it that these trees are so great for garden enthusiasts and what will they offer aside from looking beautiful?

Focal point

One of the obvious reasons why home gardeners are drawn to ornamental tree is that they can be incredibly attractive. Lovely flowing branches, delightful and colourful flowers and glossy foliage combine to create a stunning focal point in your garden. Their height too will of course immediately command attention.

There are many ways that you could use an ornamental tree to enhance your planting scheme but typically, there are two that are most common.

As we’ve already mentioned many gardeners will plant a single ornamental tree in the centre of the garden or somewhere that it will easily draw attention. This makes a wonderful focal point and works very well no matter the size of garden. Moreover, it is a great way to define a space and if you don’t have room for a lot of plants, these trees are a great way to incorporate some colour and interest without going over the top.

On the other hand, you may use several ornamental trees to create an attractive border and this is something that is often done along a driveway or path creating something of a boulevard. You might line the area on both sides with trees for an even more dramatic look.

Shade

Since many ornamental trees can grow to be quite large, they will provide some degree of shade. This might be for your own enjoyment, allowing you to place a bench or seating under your tree for those hot days, or it may be for the benefit of certain plants.

If you have a south facing garden that gets a lot of sun, this could affect your ability to successfully grow plants that don’t like direct sunlight. Planting them in the semi-shade of an ornamental tree is a viable solution and will give your garden more variety.

Backdrop

Layering your garden with different plants and trees will give it a more mature and enticing look. It is certainly possible to use ornamental trees as a backdrop for smaller shrubs and plants, deepening the look of your garden.

Doing this will really help to bring new textures to the garden as well rather than just relying on things like bedding plants and hedges.

Versatile

One of the great things about the ornamental tree is that it is very versatile. Even if you have very limited space, there is no reason that you cannot grow a stunning ornamental species in a pot. Container gardening is a great way for anyone to bring colour to a space no mater how big or small. From adding an extra dimension to a plain front garden to adding colour to a patio or even bringing life to a balcony, an ornamental garden tree will be an exciting addition to any planting scheme.

Your ornamental tree

Let’s sum up. Whether you are starting with a blank canvas or looking to replant your current garden, choosing an ornamental garden tree is a wonderful idea. Gardeners all over the country favour these trees for their versatility and ability to create shade. There are many varieties to choose from and if you are pushed for space, you can even grow them in pots.

If you need any advice on which trees will look best in your garden or how to care for them don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can reach us via our contact form.