Which Trees Should You Plant for Exceptional Spring Blossom?

As winter draws to a close and the days gradually grow longer, there’s nothing quite like the sight of trees bursting into bloom to signal the arrival of spring. Spring flowering trees not only provide a stunning visual display but also offer a range of ecological benefits. If you’re considering adding one to your garden, this guide will help you choose the best options for UK gardens.

3 Benefits of Spring Flowering Trees

1. A Seasonal Spectacle

After months of bare branches and grey skies, spring flowering trees offer an early-season burst of colour before their leaves even emerge. Their striking contrast against the winter landscape makes them a focal point in any garden and your eyes can’t help be drawn to the vibrant colour of the blossom.

2. Supporting Pollinators

Spring blossom is an essential source of nectar for pollinators, including bees and other beneficial insects emerging from winter dormancy. By planting flowering trees, you contribute to biodiversity, encouraging pollinators to visit your garden and support plant pollination for the season ahead.

Here are some other great ways you can attract wildlife to your garden.

3. Low Maintenance and Manageable Growth

Many spring flowering trees are well-suited to smaller gardens, with compact, structured growth that requires minimal maintenance. Unlike large forest trees, these species won’t grow out of control and too large, making them a practical and beautiful addition to urban and suburban spaces.

Which Trees Are Best for Spring Blossom in the UK?

Ornamental Pear Tree (Pyrus calleryana ‘Chanticleer’)

One of the most popular choices for UK gardens, the Ornamental Pear Tree (also known as the Flowering Pear and the Callery Pear) offers a profusion of white flowers in early spring. It thrives in various soil types, including heavier clay sites, and maintains a compact, upright shape. Adding to its appeal, its foliage transitions from bright green to a vibrant orange-red in autumn, before falling off in mid-to-late November. It hangs onto its beautiful coloured autumn leaves longer than many other flowering trees.

Flowering Cherry (Prunus ‘Accolade’)

Flowering Cherry Trees are beloved for their stunning spring display. ‘Accolade’ produces semi-double, pale pink flowers in abundance from March, making it one of the earliest trees to bloom. Despite its name, this spring flowering tree doesn’t produce edible fruit, making it a low-maintenance option perfect for ornamental planting.

Crab Apple Trees (Malus ‘Evereste’ & Malus ‘Red Sentinel’)

Crab Apples are an excellent choice for both their spring blossom and autumn fruit. These varieties offer clusters of pink buds that open into delicate white flowers with a pink tinge, good for attracting pollinators. Later in the year, they produce small, vibrant fruit that provides food for birds and other wildlife.

Serviceberry Tree (Amelanchier ‘Robin Hill’)

Amelanchier grandiflora Robin Hill are a selected variety of the popular Serviceberry tree. A fantastic all-rounder, this tree offers seasonal interest throughout the year. It starts with a profusion of tiny white flowers in early spring on bare branches, followed by fresh green foliage that turns to a fiery orange and red in autumn. It’s highly adaptable and can thrive in pretty much all soil conditions.

Rowan or Mountain Ash (Sorbus aucuparia)

Ideal for both formal and naturalistic gardens, rowan trees produce clusters of creamy-white flowers in late spring, followed by bright red or orange berries in autumn – great for wildlife. Varieties such as ‘Sheerwater Seedling’ and ‘Cardinal Royal’ have a neat, upright growth habit, making them suitable for avenues or individual planting.

How to Choose the Right Spring Flowering Tree

Selecting the right tree for your garden isn’t as complicated as it might seem. Most spring flowering trees sold for UK gardens are compact and well-suited to smaller spaces. Consider the following factors when making your decision:

• Blossom Colour – Do you prefer white, pale pink, or a deeper hue?
• Shape and Growth Habit – Are you looking for a tree with a structured, upright form or something more spreading?
• Foliage and Seasonal Interest – Some trees provide beautiful autumn colour in addition to their spring display.
• Soil Type – Consider whether your garden has free-draining or heavy clay soil, as some trees are more adaptable than others.

If you’re uncertain, reaching out to a specialist nursery for advice is a great way to ensure you select the perfect small tree for your space.

When to Plant Spring Flowering Trees

For the best results, plant trees during the winter months when they are dormant. This allows them to establish strong roots before the growing season begins, requiring less immediate aftercare. While it’s possible to plant trees in late spring or summer, they will need more watering and care as they establish.

One thing to note is that newly planted trees may not produce as many flowers in their first year. They can experience a period of transplant shock but will settle in and bloom beautifully from their second year onwards.

Discover Trees for Exceptional Spring Blossom from Mathias Nurseries

Spring flowering trees bring a unique charm to gardens, marking the transition from winter to warmer months with a spectacular display. Whether you’re looking for early blossoms, wildlife benefits, or seasonal interest throughout the year, there’s a perfect tree for your space. By choosing the right variety and planting at the optimal time, you can enjoy the beauty of spring blossoms for years to come.

Browse our extensive range of shrubs and trees today or get in touch with our expert for tailored advice and guidance – we’re here to help!