What is a garden without a tree? There can be no doubt of the benefit of planting trees. Planting a tree provides shade, shelter, in some cases food and can be used to create an impact, define a garden boundary bringing the focus back into a garden or create a statement.
They are a valuable resource for mammals, insects and birds providing food, shelter and nesting sites, nectar for insects, pollen sources for bees, areas for bugs and beasties that birds feed on. Alongside the benefits for UK wildlife humans greatly benefit too with improved well-being, improve air quality, provide wind shelter and prevent erosion with their root systems.
Below are some popular ornamental and native trees that are a haven for wildlife that can be planted for attracting a wide range of birds, insects and mammals.
Amelanchier - all types, Alnus, Arbutus unedo, Betula uitilis – all varieties, Crataegus monogyna, Carpinus betulus, Corylus avellana, Fagus sylvatica, Ilex aquifolium, Malus sylvestris – all varieties, Prunus avium and single flowering varieties, Sorbus aucuparia and all types, Sorbus vilmorinii and Tilia cordata.
As well as ornamental and native trees listed above all fruit trees will also attract all aspects of wildlife to a garden.
Don’t forget to check your rootstocks when selecting fruit trees as this will determine the final height of the tree and required spacing.
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Arbutus Crataegus Prunus
