6 ideal plants for small backyards

Small trees are perfect for landscaping because they fit easily into any space and require less maintenance than giant trees. Pruning and training them is a breeze; some can be grown in containers. 

This article will highlight six ideal options for landscaping tight spaces. These trees may be small in stature, but they still significantly impact your landscape.

 

6 small trees for beautiful landscapes

With the rising popularity of smaller plants in urban areas, these trees are an excellent choice for adding structure, shade, and wildlife habitat to your landscape. Here are six fantastic small trees that will work perfectly in tight spaces. 

 

Indian lilac (Neem Tree)

Source: Pinterest (Eureka Farms)

 

Scientific name: Azadirachta indica 

Height: Up to 15 mt

Ideal regions: All over India

The neem tree is known for its medicinal properties and is easily grown in India. It tolerates various soil types and requires minimal care. Neem trees provide shade and act as a natural pesticide due to their insect-repelling properties. They are highly valued for their medicinal benefits and play an essential role in traditional Indian remedies. As neem has antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, the tree is used to treat skin disorders, infections and digestive issues.

Curry leaf plant

Source: Pinterest (Plant Instructions)

 

Scientific name: Murraya koenigii

Height: Up to 6 metre

Ideal regions: All over India

The curry leaf tree is a small evergreen tree that is commonly found in Indian households. It is easy to grow and thrives in tropical and subtropical climates. Curry leaves are a staple in Indian cuisine, adding flavour to various dishes. The tree requires well-drained soil and regular watering, making it a perfect addition to your garden or balcony.

There are three main varieties of Curry leaves namely the regular one that grows very fast but don’t have much fragrance. The next variety is the dwarf one that has long leaves but the plants are very short. The third variety also known as Gamthi is the one that has short leaves and has a good amount of fragnance.

Drumstick tree

Source: Pinterest (Etsy)

 

Scientific name:  Moringa oleifera

Height: Up to 12 metres

Ideal regions: All over India

The drumstick tree is a fast-growing, drought-tolerant tree native to India. The Moringa tree is rich in nutrients and is often referred to as a  “superfood.” The tree’s leaves, flowers, and pods are edible and offer numerous health benefits. Drumsticks can adapt to a wide range of soil conditions and require minimal maintenance, making them an excellent choice for home gardening. The Moringa tree’s leaves, pods and  kernels are all used for various purposes including oil extraction and water purification.

Indian laburnum

Source: Pinterest (feastforthought.blogspot.com.ar)

 

Scientific name: Cassia fistula 

Height: Up to 20 metres

Ideal regions: All over India

The Indian laburnum, commonly called Amaltas, is a small to medium-sized tree known for its striking yellow flowers. It thrives in tropical and subtropical regions of India. The tree requires moderate watering and prefers loamy, well-drained soil. The Indian laburnum is a sight to behold when in full bloom and is a favourite among garden enthusiasts.

The golden yellow flowers of this tree are an integral part of the Vishu celebrations. 

Bottlebrush tree

Source: Pinterest (Yougarden.com)

 

Scientific name: Callistemon spp. 

Height: Up to 5 metres

Ideal regions: Southern and western regions of India

The bottlebrush tree gets its name from its unique cylindrical flower spikes resembling a bottle brush. It is a compact evergreen tree that adds an aesthetic appeal to gardens and yards. Bottlebrush trees prefer well-drained soil and moderate watering. They are well-suited for the southern and western regions of India, where the climate is relatively warm

The Crimson Bottlebrush, Weeping Bottlebrush and White Bottlebrush are some of the bottlebush types.

Indian beech

Source: Pinterest (pixcove.com)

 

Scientific name: Pongamia pinnata 

Height: Up to 20 metres

Ideal regions: All over India

The Indian Beech, commonly known as Karanj, is a small to medium-sized tree found throughout India. It is well-suited for reforestation efforts and acts as a nitrogen-fixing species, enriching the soil. The tree’s seeds yield oil that is used in traditional medicine and a biofuel. Indian beech trees thrive in a variety of soil types and require moderate watering.

The tree produces white or pale pink flowers. The flowers of the Indian Beech  have lot of nectar that attract bees.

FAQs

How can small trees transform my small yard?

Small trees can add beauty, shade and privacy to your small yard while taking up minimum space. They provide a focal point, enhance the overall aesthetic, and create a cosy atmosphere.

What are the advantages of planting small trees in a small yard?

Small trees offer various benefits including adding visual interest, improving air quality, attracting wildlife, reducing noise and providing shade. They also require less maintenance compared to larger trees.

What criteria should I consider when choosing small trees for my small yard?

Consider factors like the tree’s mature size, growth rate, suitability to your climate, maintenance requirements, and aesthetic qualities like flowering, fall colour or evergreen foliage. Additionally. Consider if the tree’s root system is suitable for your yard’s available space.

Can you suggest some ideal small trees for small yards?

Certainly! Some ideal small trees for small yards include Japanese maple, Dogwood, Crape Myrtle, Flowering Cherry, Crabapple, Eastern Redbud, Witch Hazel, and Serviceberry. These trees offer a variety of size, colours, and shapes to suit different preferences.

Can I plant multiple small trees in my small yard?

Yes, you can plant multiple small trees in your yard. However, ensure that you select trees that won’t overcrowd the space as they grow. Consider their mature sizes and allow enough room for each tree to reach its full potential without competing for resources.

Can small trees be planted in containers or pots?

Yes, many small trees can be successfully grown in containers or pots, making them suitable for small yards. Ensure the container has proper drainage and choose a tree species that is well-suited for container gardening. Regular watering, fertilising and occasional repotting may be necessary.

 

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at [email protected]