When children are shown plants and taught how to identify them, they’re encouraged to see more than just flowers. They look at textures, leaf shape, patterns in the bark. All of these things are what makes a tree beautiful, even when it doesn’t have a big show of blooms. And in a front garden, somewhere you see a tree up close every day, all through the year, these different aesthetic qualities can bring so much interest. The more you look, the more there is to enjoy.

Image may contain Cottage House Building Housing Plant Grass and Roof

Our front gardens are particularly special places and aren’t just for us, the owner, to enjoy as a secret sanctuary tucked in privacy behind high fences or hedges. They make up the beauty and atmosphere of the road you live on, something for everyone to enjoy. A well thought-out front garden tree that thrives in its conditions will also provide on more than just good looks. It can offer food and habitats for wildlife, as well as help slow water run off and prevent flooding. In the summer, a tree offers shade and reduces the urban heat island effect.

From beautiful bark to zingy spring colour and deep red autumn berries, here are seven of the best trees for an attractive front garden all year round.

NB. All of the below trees all can be pruned and maintained to be small and neat in habit, with annual work to reduce crown size and shape growing habit where necessary.

Image may contain Plant Tree Pollen Flower Vegetation Bud and Sprout

A Cornelian cherry tree with its delicate yellow flowers.

ffaber53For three long, wonderful seasons of interest: Cornus mas

The Cornelian cherry, Cornus mas, has delicate little flowers that arrive in February; an explosion of yellow fireworks dotted across its bare bark, at a time of year when we desperately need some cheer. A compact tree, it won’t dominate a garden or give too much shade. In mid-summer, bright red, glossy fruits appear which are edible. The leaves then turn a reddish purple in autumn, with the lovely, slightly drooped leaves that are characteristic of a cornus.

Comments are closed.

Pin