Many of us have small gardens, front yard, courtyards and side yards, and we all puzzle how to style them. What greenery, blooms and trees to pick not to make this space even smaller or claustrophobic? Usually home owners skip trees in such cases because a tree can really take all the space but there are some smart options that won’t do that. Let’s discuss the best trees for small and even tiny gardens, and I’m sure, you’ll find your perfect solution here. Don’t forget to add some hedges too.
What Should A Tree For A Small Garden Be Like?
First of all, consider tall trees: they will add vertical interest without stealing the precious space. Avoid too dense foliage because it can block out natural light. Prefer delicate and thin trees with airy branches, even if they are spreading, they won’t block anything. A super tall tree might have spreading branches but they will be over the yard and not inside, which is also a nice idea. Though green and evergreen trees might be eaiser to maintain, blooming trees will definitely strike and add curb appeal but let’s take a look at both.
Green Trees For Small Gardens
Green and evergreen trees are usually easier to take care of and they look eye-catchy all year round, for example, if you take Yew or something like that. These are a perfect solution for modern and minimalist spaces and will beautifully refresh black and white terraces adding shape. Trees like maple and birch that have spreading branches but still not dense ones, will add an effortless and relaxed feel to a modern yard, too.
Thin and delicate, birch trees are always a good idea for a small garden with a modern or Scandinavian feel.
A bay tree has a peculiar shape that catches an eye and as it's not big, it won't block out the light.
Prunifolia Splendens catches an eye immediately with its unique color and texture.
If you don't know what to choose, prefer thin and delicate trees that will look airy. (via outerspacegardens).
Cercis canadensis 'Forest Pansy' is a bold solution for those who aren't looking for blooms but for bold looks without them.
Such a small and delicate Enkianthus tree is a perfect idea for an inner courtyard, where the amount of space and light is limited.
Container planting is a good idea, so you will be able to move your trees around. Euonymus alatus is one of trees you can plant like that.
European olive trees are a nice solution for modern and organic spaces without any bright colors.
Italian cypress is a cool idea if you need a very compact and tall tree that will add vertical interest to the garden.
Japanese Acer palmatum is a catchy and small tree that can be squeezed even into such a narrow yard.
Japanese maple is classics that works: its textural leaves and delicate look will add curb appeal without blocking light or looking heavy.
Juniperus communis ‘Compressa' is a lovely vertical tree option that doesn't spread any branches.
Linden is a good idea for many small spaces, it grows quite tall and its spreading branches will be over the yard and not in.
Magnolia grandiflora ‘Little Gem’ is a pretty solution for a small yard and a warm climate, even its leaves are catchy.
Maples are among the most popular small yard solutions, and this Manchus maple is one of them.
A maple tree can be placed in your front yard: while giving some privacy it won't block the light.
Though this maple is quite tall, it lets light in creating a delicate shade over the greenery.
This tall olive tree is still an option for a small space as the leaves aren't too dense.
This is a pear tree paired with a lovely topiary feature for an ultra-modern look.
One more vertical tree that won't steal your garden space is Pencil Holly.
Maples can be planted in containers to move them where needed and to give a modern feel to the space.
Pyrus salicifolia 'Pendula' is a small round-shaped tree that will add vertical interest to the space.
This small maple tree doesn't take much space and the topiaries around support the modern feel of the yard.
If you have an inner courtyard and don't know what to place there, a small maple can be a option.
Yew is one more vertical tree option that won't take too much space but will add eye-catchiness.
These small and delicate trees in containers add interest without taking too much place. (via homesandgardens).
Birch trees are delicate and not too dense, and they look nice with many types of landscape. (via homestolove).
This mini olive tree won't grow large but will make your outdoor space cooler. (via thelocalproject).
Blooming Trees For Small Gardens
If you ask me, I’d choose blooming trees because such a tree, even if it’s a single one, will leave a lasting impression. Imagine a tiny garden with a blooming cherry or apple tree, with a bright magnolia or hawthorn – isn’t it heaven? Though such trees are more difficult to maintain and have dense foliage, they are worth it. Anyway, you can get a dwarf version and avoid such problems. Get inspired and let your small garden wow!
Amelanchier is a beautiful blooming tree that will make your garden absolutely adorable.
Camellia Japonica is a small tree with extra bright flowers that will make your outdoor space wow.
Blooming cherry trees are classics, their beautiful blooms just mesmerize.
Crape Myrtle will strike you and your guests with its jaw-dropping colors.
Dogwood trees feature beautiful white blooms that will refersh the yard and make it look lighter.
Dwarf trees are always a good idea for a small yard, and this dwarf Japanese Tree Lilac will add color and beauty with its blooms.
Portuguese Laurel will elevate the look of your yard with such beautiful blossoms of a unique shape.
Though Eastern Redbud has quite spreading branches, the blooms aren't too dense and won't block the light adding color to the space.
In October your Euonymus alatus will look like this, isn't it jaw-dropping? Such a bold alternative to Japanese maple!.
This gorgeous tree is flowering Almond, and this is amazing, no worse than cherry blossom.
If your climate can allow growing Magnolias, make sure to get them, they are adorable!.
Hawthorn is another nice example of a small yet bold blooming tree that is worth every inch of space that it takes.
This hydrangea tree is called Strawberry Vanilla, and we all see why, so cute!.
Venus Dogwood Tree is a lovely blooming option that isn't too small but as soon as you see the blooms, you will love it. (via goodhousekeeping).
Prairifire Crabapple is a gorgeous delicate tree with extra bright and fantastic blossoms, a win-win idea for a small garden.
Royal Star Magnolia is a lovely tree with white blossom that will make your yard look adorable.