How to choose the perfect tree

If you are sitting outside enjoying the spring sunshine, think about what those areas will be like in the peak of summer when the sun is higher in the sky.

Now is a good time to think about getting some more shade around your house and garden. You may not get the benefits for a couple of years but it's well worth the effort now.

Trees will make up the backbone of your garden and you must think very carefully about finding the right tree for the job.

All trees have certain shapes - pyramidal, wide canopy, columnar, V-shaped, round and oval - so you need to think about the shape that best fits the area. The best idea is to visit a tree farm, look at all the specimens and find out all the information about the tree.

Most new gardens only have room for one or two trees, so spend time researching the perfect one for a particular area; you may want one canopy tree or two upright trees, for instance.

Plan for the mature height - and no, you can't keep a 12m-tall tree to only 5m. Get one that only grows to 5m as it will save you a lot of heartache and arguments later on.

Always prepare the hole for your tree very well. It will be with you for many years so it's worth the effort.

Compost, manure, wetting agent a good-quality fertiliser and microbes will get your tree off to a racing start.