Some of the most beautiful and popular trees in gardens are ornamental trees. Many of these, such as fruit trees, flowering trees, and nut trees, provide not only aesthetic value but also food for humans or wildlife. Ornamental trees come in all shapes and sizes, from small bushes to large shade trees, and there are varieties available to suit any garden.
When choosing an ornamental tree for your garden, it is important to consider the tree’s size at maturity, its growth habit (whether it is fast or slow growing), its preferred soil type and exposure to sunlight, and its resistance to pests and diseases. You should also think about whether you want a deciduous or evergreen tree. Deciduous ornamental trees lose their leaves in winter but usually have more interesting bark, flowers, or fruits than evergreens. Evergreen ornamental trees keep their leaves all year round but may not have flowers or fruits that are as showy or decorative.
Once you have chosen the right tree for your garden, you need to make sure that you plant it in the right place and give it the right care. If you’re having trouble finding the right one, check this range of ornamental trees at Gardeners Dream.
Now without further ado, let’s get into how to take care of your newly-bought ornamental tree!
3 Steps to Take Care of your Ornamental Tree
- When you first bring your tree home, it is important to water it well. This will help the roots to settle in and establish themselves quickly. After the initial watering, continue to water regularly during the first growing season. Once established, most ornamental trees will be quite drought tolerant. However, during extended periods of dry weather, they may benefit from an occasional deep watering.
- Ornamental trees need very little fertiliser if they are planted in fertile soil with plenty of organic matter. If you think your tree needs some extra nutrition, apply a slow-release fertiliser in springtime. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilisers as these can encourage too much leaf growth at the expense of flowers or fruits. Also, be careful not to over-fertilise, as this can damage the roots and make the tree more susceptible to pests and diseases.
- Pruning is usually only necessary to remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches, or to control the size or shape of the tree. If you do need to prune your ornamental tree, it is best to do so in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
In addition to these tips, be sure to check the specific requirements of your tree species, as some may have special needs such as more or less water, sun, or fertiliser. The best way to keep your ornamental tree healthy and looking its best is to provide it with the proper care from the start and not to neglect it once it is established.
With a little love and attention, your tree will be a beautiful asset to your garden and provide years of enjoyment in the garden. So choose wisely and enjoy your new addition!
