Recent rain-laden storms have left the ground saturated. And although it’s not good for soil structure to be digging sodden dirt, it’s a great time for planting deciduous trees. While you’re waiting for the water table to drop, start browsing to see which varieties suit your situation best. Many a tree has been planted only to be cut down a few years later, once the owner realizes they made the wrong choice!

Climate, soil type and exposure to wind, sun and shade are the factors most likely to affect a plant’s growth. So when you’re shopping for the garden, write a checklist of conditions plants will have to tolerate to ensure you choose the right one for the right place.

When it comes to choosing a tree, its size, shape and whether it is evergreen or deciduous also become important factors. The dimensions provided on a plant label are usually based on an average of 10 years’ growth. But in warm, temperate climates, that growth rate may be doubled!

The foliage of deciduous trees allows sunlight to penetrate during the winter months and often provides lovely dappled shade in summer. Evergreen trees are useful to block out unsightly views and provide structure to the garden, but take care not to plant them where excessive shading could become an issue. And remember that all trees drop leaves! Try to site them where fallen leaves won’t clog guttering and roots won’t block drains.

Consider the shape of a tree – columnar versus rounded or spreading – to ensure the tree fits its surroundings once mature. Deciduous trees lend themselves to pruning better than evergreens. However it’s best to avoid pruning as it can destroy the natural shape and form of a tree.

Once you’ve decided which variety of tree will best fit your situation, invest in a well-developed specimen with a strong, even branch structure.

Sweet Gum

Normally sweet gum (Liquidambar) will grow into a giant of a tree, but new variety ‘Little Richard’ is more restrained, reaching about 3m in 10 years’ time, making it ideal for small gardens or large containers.

Maidenhair

The ancient maidenhair tree (gingko) is often described as a living fossil, due to its historic lineage. Although they are magnificent, they usually grow far too large for the average garden. However new ‘Jade Butterflies’ is a compact variety that grows to just 3m tall

Japanese maple

Also known as Acer, Japanese maples are a prime choice for small gardens. Not only are they well proportioned, they offer highly textured foliage in a range of appealing colours.

Cercis

Dramatic Cercis ‘Forest Pansy’ has stunning dark red foliage, while new ‘Hearts of Gold’ (inset) produces coppery coloured new growth that turns to brilliant golden yellow or green if shaded.

Crabapple

Look to crabapple trees (Malus) for both spring blossom and stunning autumn fruit. Choose from weeping, spreading or upright forms; white, pink or crimson flowers; and yellow, orange or crimson fruit. Colourful ‘Samba’ (inset) grows tall and slim.

Magnolia

These beautiful trees are among the most ancient and aristocratic of flowering plants. Two new varieties well-suited to smaller gardens are ‘Genie’ (right) and ‘Cleopatra’ (below), which grow to 3m and 4m respectively.

Weeping pear

For wonderful contrast in the garden, plant a weeping ornamental pear tree (Pyrus salicifolia ‘Pendula’) with its lovely, fine-textured silver foliage and graceful, weeping habit.

Robina Mop Top

A popular choice for growing in containers, accent planting or lining paths and driveways is Robina Mop Top (left). New ‘Tropical Splash’ (top left) is similar to gorgeous golden-foliaged Robina ‘Frisia’, but has larger leaves that hang on for longer, into late autumn.

How to plant a tree

• Dig a hole twice the size of the tree’s root ball.
• Mix compost into the extracted soil and place aside.
• Mix compost into the planting hole, making a mound in the centre.
• Place slow-release fertiliser in the hole.
• Remove tree from the bag and gently loosen its roots, trimming off any damaged roots.
• Place the tree into the hole and spread its roots out over the mound.
• Adjust the height of the mound so that the crown of the tree is at ground level.
• Hammer stakes in if necessary, avoiding roots.
• Backfill the hole with extracted soil and gently press to firm.
• Water the tree well and mulch with compost, leaving trunk clear.
• Tie the tree firmly to the stakes using flexible tree ties.

TIP: On exposed sites, tie windbreak cloth around the windward side.