Having a small outdoor space does not mean you have to give up on planting trees. By asking a few essential questions and carefully planning your planting project, you can find a wide range of trees suitable for small properties.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Tree for a Small Property
In addition to hardiness, several important questions should be considered when choosing a tree for a limited space:
Begin by carefully observing your property:
What are the dimensions of the site?
Consider the width and length of the available space, but also try to determine the depth of the soil. Is there bedrock close to the surface? Are there underground pipes or other structures?
Are there any nearby obstacles?
Buildings, overhead wires, fences and swimming pools should all be considered before choosing a tree.
How much sunlight does the site receive?
Does the area receive plenty of sunlight or very little? At what time of day, and for how many hours?
Next, consider the characteristics of the tree you would like to purchase.
The Mature Height and Spread of the Tree
This information can usually be found on the tree’s nursery label or on your tree supplier’s website.
The Tree’s Growth Habit or Shape
Weeping, cascading, columnar and narrow growth habits are often recommended for small spaces, as are compact forms.
The Tree’s Tolerance of Urban Conditions
This is particularly important when the planting site is exposed to pollution or located close to a street.
Small-Growing Tree Species for Small Properties
The next step is to choose a tree species that will remain suitable for your space over the long term. Here are several options to consider.
Canada Serviceberry (Amelanchier canadensis)
Zone: 2b. Height: 8 m. Spread: 4 m. Exposure: Full sun or partial shade
Photo by Hickory Hollow Nursery and Garden Center | Flickr
Canadian Serviceberry is a small, often multi-stemmed tree native to North America. It features oval leaves that are green during the growing season and turn reddish orange in fall. In May, it produces clusters of delicate white flowers, followed by small edible berries that ripen from red to blue-black and attract birds and butterflies.
It adapts to a variety of soils and climates and prefers full sun to partial shade. In urban areas, it is tolerant of road salt. However, it is sensitive to pollution. It is valued for both its ornamental appeal and its contribution to biodiversity.
Katsura Tree (Cercidiphyllum japonicum)
Zone: 5b. Height: 10 m. Spread: 5 m. Exposure: Full sun or partial shade
The Katsura Tree is an ornamental tree native to Japan and China and valued for its graceful appearance. Its heart-shaped leaves emerge with bronze tones in spring, become blue-green in summer and develop beautiful shades of orange in fall. At that time of year, the leaves also release a fragrance reminiscent of caramel or burnt sugar.
It adapts to a wide variety of moist, well-drained soils. Relatively resistant to diseases, it is an excellent ornamental tree for landscaped gardens.
Alternate-Leaf Dogwood (Cornus alternifolia)
Zone: 3b. Height: 3 m. Spread: 2 m. Exposure: Full sun, partial shade or shade
Photo by Kjeannette | Flickr
Alternate-Leaved Dogwood is a large shrub or small tree native to North America. Its green leaves are arranged alternately along the branches, creating an attractive layered appearance. In May and June, it produces clusters of small white or yellowish flowers, followed by blue-black berries that attract birds. In fall, its foliage develops brilliant shades of yellow, red and purple.
This dogwood tolerates a variety of soils but prefers rich, moist and well-drained conditions. It is a popular choice for landscaped gardens because of its ornamental appeal and resistance to diseases and insects.
Weeping White Spruce (Picea glauca ‘Pendula’)
Zone: 3a. Height: 10 m. Spread: 2.5 m. Exposure: Full sun or partial shade
Weeping White Spruce is a slow-growing conifer with a narrow form, cascading branches and blue-green foliage. Native to North America, this spruce can reach a maximum height of approximately 10 metres. Its needles are short and sharp, creating a fine texture. This cultivar adds grace and vertical interest to the garden.
Weeping White Spruce thrives in well-drained soils and cool to temperate climates. It requires a sunny or lightly shaded location. Regular maintenance can help support balanced growth and preserve its attractive appearance.
Striped Maple (Acer pensylvanicum)
Zone: 3a. Height: 7 m. Spread: 5 m. Exposure: Shade
Japanese Tree Lilac (Syringa reticulata)
Zone: 2a. Height: 7–9 m. Spread: 6 m. Exposure: Full sun
Photo by John Hagstrom | Flickr
Japanese Tree Lilac is a small tree native to Asia and highly resistant to the harsh winters of Ontario and Eastern Canada. It is valued for its large clusters of white or cream flowers, sometimes tinged with pink, which bloom from late June into July. The flowers release a sweet fragrance and attract bees and butterflies. Its dark green foliage provides an elegant contrast with the flowers before turning golden yellow in fall.
Like other lilacs, it prefers rich, well-drained soils. It is popular with horticulturists and landscape professionals because it presents few significant growing problems.
Saucer Magnolia (Magnolia × soulangeana)
Zone: 5b. Height: 5 m. Spread: 4 m. Exposure: Full sun or partial shade
Amur Maackia (Maackia amurensis)
Zone: 3b. Height: 8–10 m. Spread: 6 m. Exposure: Full sun
Adapted to temperate climates, it grows in a wide range of soils as long as they are well drained. Its slow growth makes it a suitable choice for smaller spaces. It is a resilient and relatively low-maintenance tree.
Russian Olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia)
Zone: 2b. Height: 7–10 m. Spread: 7 m. Exposure: Full sun
Photo by Danièle Monier Leroy | Flickr
Russian Olive is a tree native to Europe and Asia. It has distinctive silvery foliage. Its small, fragrant flowers are yellow on the inside and silvery on the outside. Its silvery fruit is edible and attractive to birds.
This tree is drought tolerant and grows in a range of soils, including poor and alkaline soils. It is also tolerant of pollution and road salt. These characteristics can make it an interesting option for small urban properties. Russian Olive offers a distinctive appearance with its silvery foliage and decorative fruit.
European Mountain Ash (Sorbus aucuparia)
Zone: 3a. Height: 10 m. Spread: 7 m. Exposure: Full sun or partial shade
Photo by Chris van Schravendijk | Flickr
European Mountain Ash is distinguished by its clusters of bright red berries, which attract birds when ripe. Its compound, dark green leaves turn golden yellow in fall. During its flowering period, it produces clusters of delicate white flowers.
This hardy small tree adapts to a variety of soils but prefers sunny or partially shaded locations. It is often used in landscaping for its ornamental beauty and contribution to biodiversity.
How Far from a Building Should I Plant a Small Tree?
For small trees, a general guideline is that the minimum distance between the building and the planting hole should equal approximately half of the tree’s mature spread. For example, a tree with a mature spread of 6 metres should be planted at least 3 metres away from the building.
How Far from Power Lines Should I Plant My Tree?
Structures and buildings are often numerous and close together on a small property. It is therefore essential to consider both your immediate and long-term safety. Before digging, determine whether any underground wires, pipes or other utilities could create a hazard during planting.
Also consider whether the tree will remain a safe distance from overhead wires as it grows, particularly if it will eventually require pruning.
To help you determine safe planting distances, consult this guide produced by Hydro-Québec.
Several Good Reasons to Plant a Tree in a Small Garden
There are many good reasons to plant a tree on your property, even when your yard is small:
- To add character and potentially increase the value of your property;
- To provide shade and help reduce the urban heat island effect;
- To create a greater sense of privacy;
- To celebrate the birth of a child;
- To support the environment and biodiversity.
With so many benefits, why go without one?
Article updated July 13, 2026
