When planning your flower beds, incorporating small trees can add height and structure to your garden design. These compact trees not only provide vertical interest but also offer shade and beauty without overwhelming the space. While there are many options available, some small-scale trees are particularly well-suited for flower bed integration.
Here are 7 small trees that work wonderfully in flower beds, suitable for various growing conditions and garden styles.
Crape Myrtle
The Crape Myrtle is a perennial plant known for its long bloom time, often lasting throughout summer. This plant needs at least six hours of direct sunshine per day to bear its greatest blossoms because it thrives in full sun. There are several hues of Crape Myrtles, including pink, red, white, and purple tones. For optimum growth, they require moderate watering, especially during dry spells, and like well-drained soil.
Japanese Maple
Japanese maple trees have leaves that change color with the seasons, displaying green, crimson, and purple hues. Though they can withstand full sun in colder climates, they do best in partial shade, especially in warmer climes. These trees prefer pH-neutral to slightly acidic soil that drains well. Once established, Japanese maples require little more than occasional pruning to keep their shape and health, and they hardly ever require heavy watering.
Dogwood
The Dogwood tree blooms for a few weeks in the spring, usually from late March until mid-May. Although they can withstand full sun in colder climates, these trees prefer sites that are somewhat sheltered. Well-drained, somewhat acidic soil is ideal for dogwood growth. For their health, they need to be watered moderately, especially during dry spells. Dogwoods are a great option for many landscapes since they are perennial plants that are typically resistant to deer.
Redbud
Early in the spring, redbuds blossom, adding a pop of color before many other plants wake up. These trees are flexible; they would rather be in full sun than in some shade. After they are established, they usually tolerate drought and grow well in well-drained soil. Redbuds are good for garden ecosystems because they draw pollinators like bees and butterflies. They provide a dependable and low-maintenance solution for a range of landscapes, and they are appropriate for USDA hardiness zones 4 through 9.
Flowering Cherry
Flowering Early spring brings out the white and pink blossoms on cherry trees. These trees need well-draining soil and flourish in direct sunlight. They need very little pruning—just enough to get rid of dead branches—and are therefore comparatively low-maintenance. Although they can withstand typical garden conditions and are hardy in zones 5-8, they do need regular watering, particularly in the initial years. In addition to being lovely, they draw butterflies and bees, which makes them an invaluable addition to a landscape that supports pollinators.
Ornamental Pear
Early spring is when ornamental pears trees usually blossom, producing tiny white blooms that can linger for several weeks. For best growth, these trees need full sun and do best in well-drained soil. They can be found in many different temperature zones because they are often hardy in zones 4 through 9. Although ornamental pear trees require little upkeep, they do require frequent irrigation during dry spells to maintain moist soil and encourage strong development.
Hawthorn
When hawthorn blooms are in bloom, which usually happens in late spring or early summer, they are known to draw pollinators like bees and butterflies. They can be planted in a variety of garden settings because they can withstand some shade and thrive in full sunlight. Although they thrive best on soil with good drainage, hawthorns may withstand less than ideal circumstances. For gardeners searching for low-maintenance plants that benefit the environment, these perennials are an excellent option because they require little care.