Trees that can be planted near houses

Certain trees have a high water demand that, on clay soils in particular, can lead to them drying and shrinking, at worst leading to subsidence. Strong, fast-growing roots can also pose a problem, with the potential to damage drainage systems in their quest for water.

Fortunately, there are more than enough beautiful trees, including trees for small gardens, that are fine to plant close by houses, without any risk to the soundness of your home.

Related content:

• Top trees for small gardens
• How to plant a potted tree
• How to plant a bare-root tree
• Forum: Trees in pots

Check out some of our favourite trees to plant near houses, below.

Fruit trees

Fruit trees, including pears, apples, apricots and plums can be grown as espaliers or fans against the wall of a house, ideally a warm, sunny one. This is perfect for small gardens and maximises the productivity if your plant. Discover three ways to train a fruit tree.

Olives

Olive trees grow extremely slowly and even the oldest trees are small but beautifully gnarled specimens. When planting, choose a warm, sunny spot for them and make sure the soil is very well-drained.

Sorbus

As well as being small trees, sorbus tend to grow up rather than out, so they're less likely to grow towards the house and find themselves obstructed. They're brilliant for wildlife, too – providing spring blossom and abundant autumn berries.

Cornus kousa

Cornus kousa is a lovely large shrub or small tree with pale bracts in summer followed by red pompon shaped fruits. It's ideal for perking up a drab front garden. You could also consider Cornus florida and Cornus controversa.

Yew

Slow-growing yew trees are one of the few conifers that will regrow from brown wood, so they're ideal for clipping into topiary shapes that can be grown near the house. Yews are easy to grow, but it's essential they're planted in very well-drained soil, as they hate wet feet. Watch Monty plant yew.

Crab apples

Crab apples are fantastic trees for small gardens, so they're well suited to growing near houses, where they'll bring plenty of interest in the form of blossom, fruits and colourful autumn foliage.

Planting hole positioning

Even with wall-trained trees, it's a good idea to dig your planting hole a foot or so away from the wall, to give the roots room to grow and to make it easier for rain to reach the roots. To train a tree, simply tilt the tree towards the wall when planting, then tie in the branches.