As smaller homes become more popular, gardens are shrinking too—making plant selection more important. Choose plants that match your space and consider functions like privacy, shade, color, texture, edible produce, wildlife appeal, and relaxation.

When choosing trees, focus on their mature size over 15–20 years. Dwarf trees grow to about 8 ft., and small trees to around 15 ft. Pruning helps manage size but shouldn’t ruin natural form. Look for features like flowers, foliage, fall color, fruit, and bark. Some trees can be trained into compact shapes but require regular care.

Great trees for small gardens include Downy Serviceberry, Smooth Serviceberry, Alternate Leafed Dogwood, Gray Dogwood, Eastern Redbud, Ohio Buckeye, Blue Beech, Royal Star Magnolia, Hanna’s Heart Katsura. Nurseries often use grafting or training methods to control size, such as creating ‘standard forms’—common with PG Hydrangeas, Portuguese Laurel, and Wisteria.

For edible options, dwarf and semi-dwarf apples and cherries are ideal. Rootstock controls tree size, so you can pick any variety. With smart choices, even small spaces can host beautiful, functional gardens.