How to Grow Small Trees - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2025

Small trees is one of the most popular plant choices for gardens and landscaping because of its beauty and versatility. A wide variety of small trees exist, from the weeping willow to the flowering dogwood, that can add interest and flavor to your home’s outdoor spaces. Many of these trees are easy to care for and maintain, making them ideal for homeowners who want to enjoy the benefits of trees without a lot of hassle.

How to Grow Small Trees - Plant Care & Tips

Popular name

  • Buttonbush
  • Fothergilla
  • Summersweet
  • Sweet pepperbush
  • Witch hazel

Common Knowledge

  • They help to increase the curb appeal of your home.
  • Small trees are easier to maintain than large trees.
  • You can plant them closer to your home without worrying about damaging the foundation.
  • They provide shade and can help to reduce your energy bills in the summer.
  • Small trees are less likely to damage your property in a storm.
  • They can be a great addition to your landscaping and can help to create a more natural look.
  • They can be an inexpensive way to add color and interest to your yard.
  • Small trees are generally easier to transplant than large trees.
  • They can be a good choice for areas that are difficult to mow or weed.
  • They can provide habitat for birds and other wildlife.

Related plant:
Small Evergreen Plants

Planting Process

  1. For small trees, first step is to find a location that receives plenty of sunlight.
  2. The second step is to clear away any debris, such as rocks and dead leaves, from the planting area.
  3. Third, dig a hole that is twice as wide and just as deep as the tree’s root ball.
  4. Fourth, place the tree in the hole and fill in the space around it with soil.
  5. Fifth, water the tree deeply and regularly, especially during its first growing season.
  6. Sixth, apply a layer of mulch around the tree, but keep it away from the trunk.
  7. Seventh, fertilize the tree twice a year, in spring and fall.
  8. Eighth, prune the tree as needed to shape it and remove any dead or damaged branches.
  9. Ninth, watch for pests and diseases and take steps to control them.
  10. Finally, enjoy your beautiful, healthy tree!

The Soil

About soil condition, small trees need well-drained soil that is moist but not wet. The best time to plant them is in the spring or fall. If you plant them in the summer, make sure to water them regularly.

About light

Not too different with other trees, small trees need sun to grow. They use sunlight to produce food for themselves through a process called photosynthesis. Photosynthesis is how trees turn sunlight, water and carbon dioxide into the food they need to live and grow. If a tree doesn't get enough sun, it won't be able to produce enough food to survive and will eventually die.

Ideal Temperature

The temperature condition of small trees is that they cannot survive in climates that are too hot or too cold. They need a moderate temperature in order to thrive. This is why small trees are often found in temperate regions of the world. They are also not able to tolerate large fluctuations in temperature, so they need to be in an environment that is relatively stable.

Humidity Level

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50%. The plant should be watered when the top of the soil feels dry. The plant should not be allowed to sit in water. If the plant is in a pot, a drainage hole is necessary. The plant should be misted occasionally.

Fertilizing

Mentioning fertilizer, this plant food is important not just for large trees, but for small trees as well. The roots of a small tree are not as deep as a large tree, so they are not able to access all the nutrients they need from the ground. Fertilizer provides these essential nutrients and helps the tree to grow healthy and strong.

About light

Pruning a small tree is important to maintaining its shape and promoting growth. When pruning, focus on removing dead or diseased branches, as well as any that are crossing or rubbing against each other. This will help the tree to remain healthy and prevent future problems.

The Propagation

Propagation is the process of creating new plants from a parent plant. There are many ways to propagate plants, but one of the simplest methods is to take cuttings from an existing plant and grow them in a new pot. To take cuttings from a plant, first choose a healthy, robust stem that has not flowered yet. Cut the stem at a 45-degree angle, just below a leaf node (the point where a leaf meets the stem). Strip the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting, and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone. Next, plant the cutting in a pot filled with moistened potting mix. Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag to create a mini greenhouse, and place it in a bright spot out of direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist, and in a few weeks, you should see new growth emerging from the cutting. Once the plant is established, you can transplant it into a larger pot or into the garden.

Plant Growth

Usually, the plant growth rate depends on the amount of water and sunlight they receive. If the tree is healthy and gets the proper amount of sunlight and water, then it will grow quickly. If the tree is unhealthy or doesn't get the proper amount of sunlight or water, then it will grow slowly.

Common Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are lesser known compared to issues for large trees. For example, large trees are much more likely to fall over during a storm and cause damage to property. Small trees are also more likely to get uprooted by high winds. These problems are less common for small trees, but they can still happen.

Tips on Growing

  • Remember to water your tree regularly. Trees need at least an inch of water per week, so make sure to keep an eye on the weather and water accordingly.
  • Fertilize your tree every few months with a balanced fertilizer to keep it healthy and growing strong.
  • Prune your tree regularly to promote new growth and prevent it from getting too big for its location.
  • Place your tree in an area where it will receive plenty of sunlight. Trees need at least six hours of sunlight per day to thrive.
  • Keep an eye out for pests and diseases and take action immediately if you notice any problems.
  • Be patient! It can take several years for a tree to reach its full potential.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you’re having trouble with your tree. There are plenty of resources available to tree growers, so don’t hesitate to seek advice from experts.

Related Plants

  • Juniperus deppeana
  • Juniperus pinchotii
  • Juniperus scopulorum
  • Juniperus virginiana
  • Juniperus californica
  • Juniperus osteosperma
  • Juniperus occidentalis
  • Juniperus ashei
  • Juniperus monosperma
  • Juniperus phoenicea

Source:
small ornamental trees | Nebraska Extension
Small Trees for the Home Landscape (Home Garden Series)
SMALLER Native Trees - UF/IFAS Extension Broward County

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Reviewed & Published by Richelle
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Trees Category