Which Tree to Plant in Front of House UK?

Planting trees in front of a house is not only a great way to add beauty and character to your property, but it is also good for the environment. Trees provide shade, improve air quality, and help reduce energy bills by acting as a natural insulation. However, when it comes to choosing the right tree to plant in front of your house in the UK, you need to consider several factors.

Climate and Location

The first thing you need to consider is the climate and location of your property. The UK has a variable climate with different regions experiencing different climatic conditions. In general, the UK experiences mild summers and cool winters. However, some areas in the UK are wetter than others, and some are more exposed to the wind.

When choosing a tree, you need to pick one that can withstand the local climatic conditions and the surrounding environment. For instance, if you live in a windy area, consider planting a tree that can withstand strong winds, such as a beech or a birch tree.

Size of the Tree

Another critical factor you need to consider when choosing a tree to plant in front of your house is the size of the tree. You don't want to plant a tree that will eventually grow too big and become a nuisance, blocking your view or foundation of your house. On the other hand, you don't want to plant a tree that is too small and won't provide the aesthetic appeal and benefits that come with planting trees.

So, before deciding which tree to plant, consider the growth rate and mature size of the tree. Trees like the silver birch or the amelanchier lamarckii are ideal for smaller gardens as they grow up to a maximum height of 10-12 meters.

Maintenance Requirements

Another factor you need to consider is the maintenance requirements of the tree. Trees need regular pruning and maintenance to keep them healthy and looking good. Some species of trees require more maintenance than others. For instance, evergreen trees like the holly or the yew tree require little or no maintenance, while deciduous trees like the acer or the ornamental cherry tree need regular pruning to remove dead or damaged branches.

So, before choosing a tree, consider if you have the time, resources, and expertise to maintain the tree. If not, consider planting a low-maintenance tree.

Disease Resistance

Finally, you need to consider a tree's resistance to pests and diseases. UK trees are prone to various pests and diseases, and it is essential to choose a tree with high disease resistance. For instance, the silver birch and the acer are prone to aphid infestations, while the oak is susceptible to oak processionary moth infestations.

So, when choosing a tree, research the tree's disease resistance to ensure that you plant a tree that will thrive in your climate and location.

Conclusion

Choosing the right tree to plant in front of your house in the UK requires careful consideration of various factors such as climate, size, maintenance requirements, and disease resistance. Before planting a tree, research the species to ensure that you pick one that will thrive in your location and provide the aesthetic appeal and benefits of planting trees.