Selecting the right tree for your home

Growing a tree (or trees) is a long-term project with great generational rewards. That makes the decision to purchase a special one, and worth putting time and effort into selecting the right tree to meet your needs.

Here are some things to consider. 

Aesthetics and the visual appeal of your outdoor space through your tree selection. You’ll need to consider:

• the size and shape of the tree
• foliage in terms of colour, texture and shape
• sensory elements like fragrance and touch
• and of course seasonal changes, essentially an evergreen tree or a deciduous tree.

Following on from above, below are some examples to highlight options. Most trees cover-off on multiple aesthetic elements.

• Pyrus 'Capital' or Italian Pencil Pines grow tall and straight for growing narrow spaces, while Manchurian ornamental pear trees are big providers of shade.
• Deciduous trees like Japanese maples provide a dynamic visual effect, with leaves that change colour throughout the year. These trees are bare in winter.
• The iconic native Lemon-scented Gum is called that because of its lemony scented foliage especially noticeable evident after rain. 
• Evergreen Michelia and Magnolia such as 'Inspiration' produce highly fragrant flowers. Feijoa trees and Arbutus have leathery texturous foliage.
• Native evergreen trees like the flowering gum (Corymbia ficifolia) or Bottlebrush (Callistemon) produce vibrant, colourful blooms in Spring/Summer

Keep in mind how the tree will integrate with the existing architectural style of your home and landscaping. 

A sleek, minimalist garden might benefit from a sculptural tree like a weeping cherry, while a classic garden may pair beautifully with a crepe myrtle or magnolia. 

A tree’s colour, texture, and form may complement or contrast with other elements in your outdoor design. 

A well-chosen tree can serve as a focal point.

Aspect, or orientation, affects your tree’s exposure to sunlight, wind, and shade. 

Melbourne's climate is variable: hot summers and cold winters, so understanding the aspect of your garden is crucial for your tree’s health and growth. 

A north-facing garden will receive the most sunlight, making it ideal for sun-loving trees like olive trees or lemon-scented gums, while a south-facing garden may be better suited to shade-tolerant species like camellias or ferns.

Don’t forget to consider how the tree’s placement will impact your home and garden throughout the day. 

A well-placed tree on the western side of your property can provide much-needed shade during the hot afternoons, helping to reduce cooling costs in summer. However, be careful to avoid planting large trees that might block natural light from entering your home, especially in winter when our days are shorter.

Waterhousea hedge clipped neatly for a boundary fence.

The amount of space available in your garden will influence the type of tree you can choose.

Melbourne homes can vary from sprawling spaces to compact courtyards. You’ll need to pick a tree that fits comfortably within the area without becoming overgrown. And don’t plant too close to your fence or walls.

A larger species like a Spotted Gum (Corymbia maculata) is breathtaking but may be impractical for smaller spaces, as their roots require as much space as its canopy. Knowing the size of the mature tree is therefore important when planting a 40cm or 50cm diameter container in your garden. 

For smaller gardens, consider compact or dwarf varieties of natives, standard weepers and trees with a fastigiate form.

When planting, consider the tree’s mature size, including height and canopy spread, to avoid overcrowding and to maintain a balanced garden layout. 

Trees with vertical growth habits, like pencil pines, can be excellent choices for narrow spaces while still adding height and greenery. 

Beyond aesthetics and size, think about the functional benefits a tree can bring to your Melbourne home. 

A well-chosen tree can provide shade, privacy, windbreaks, and even fruit. 

Deciduous trees like Ornamental pears or Liquidambars are ideal for seasonal functionality, offering shade in summer and allowing sunlight to filter through during winter.

If privacy is a priority, evergreen trees such as Lilly Pilly can create natural barriers without the need for fences. 

For sustainability, consider planting an edible or fruit tree which can transform your garden into a productive space while enhancing its appeal. 

Ultimately, a tree should not only look good but also serve a purpose, whether it’s cooling your home, offering a retreat for local wildlife, or providing a serene spot for relaxation.

Most of all - plant a tree you like! This is the most important point. If you like the tree you are more likely to look after it! 

It is the first step in forming a relationship with a tree, then with your garden and the green environment around you.

You’re the one that has to look at and nurture it. Choose a tree you’ll love. A tree that will spark joy through the years or decades you live at your property. 

Your greatest resource is the community around you! Trees grown in neighbouring properties, in streets and parks can immediately flavour the type of tree that works well in area. From there get to know the species and you're on your way.

Maybe you’re not sure what species it is, or what it is you like about the tree, but you’ve made a start. Try and take a photo. Bring the photo to tree experts like us, and we can advise what tree it is, along with how it grows, its suitability for your property and needs, and whether there are similar varieties that may work better.

Trees can make or break your garden. Make the right choice. If you would like help on a project, or want to discuss trees for your home, business, council, or other, please get in touch with our team, who are only too happy to talk all things trees.