A house tree is a beautiful tradition. It gives the house an unmistakable character and should also radiate a certain security.
For many, it goes without saying that a house should also have a tree. It was like that even in childhood. Think back. If you drew a picture of a house, then the tree next to it couldn't be missing, right? At least that was the case for me and my siblings. And that's exactly what I see with my daughter to this day. But why is that - what is the significance of the tree - and which tree is suitable as a house tree?
What is a house tree
A house tree is traditionally planted when you have built a house. Of course you can also plant it if you have bought a house with a garden. Just as with the birth of the first child, at the wedding or other special occasions, the tree is ascribed a memory value. In addition, it traditionally stands for security and down-to-earthness.
Which trees are suitable as house trees?
A house tree is by no means limited to one tree species. You are free to choose and adapt it to the local conditions.
If you like it very traditional, you can stick to the following trees with a special symbolism:
- Apple Tree: Love and Affection
- Acacia: Constancy and Affection
- Birch: happiness and youth
- Pine: Love and Loy alty
- Cherry Tree: Happiness and Purity
- Lime Tree: Peace and Homeland
- Walnut Tree: Fertility
- Pasture: Hope
When choosing the right house tree, you should always keep the size of the garden in mind. It is therefore advisable to find out about the size and width of the planned house tree before purchasing it. Otherwise, after a few years, you might run out of space in your garden.
You should also note that not every tree feels comfortable in every soil. Due to the roots, which spread to different extents, it usually makes no sense to upgrade the soil. It is therefore best to select the house tree to suit the site conditions. In addition, shouldthe height of the fully grown house tree must not exceed two thirds of the width of the property.
What growth form should the house tree have?
The growth form of the house tree should go well with the house and the size of the property. For example, fruit trees with small crowns, such as apple trees or plum trees, and columnar trees are very suitable for small gardens. For larger gardens, the trees can be larger and more expansive.
Not only the size of the garden is decisive for the right growth form. You should also choose these to match the location. Standard trees, for example, are particularly suitable for terraces, as they do not block the view of the garden. In addition, trees near the house should not obstruct the incidence of light. Either choose deciduous species or those that do not grow as tall.
Tip: When planting near the house, note that the trees may develop a considerable root system.
Popular House Trees
If you are looking for a house tree for a small garden, you have the following options:
• Columnar trees, for example hornbeam (Carpinus betulus 'Fastigiata'), Japanese cherry (Prunus serrulata 'Amanogawa') or columnar hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna Stricta)
• Slow-growing trees with a spherical crown, such as Norway locust (Robinia pseudoacacia 'Umbraculifera') or Norway maple (Acer globosum)
• standard trees formatted from ornamental shrubs, for example almond trees (Prunus triloba) or harlequin willow (Salix integra 'Hakuro Nishiki')
For large gardens, large solitary trees are ideal as house trees. Mature trees can house a swing for children or be used for climbing. They also provide shade. Here, for example, maple, oak or chestnut come into question. If you like something more exotic, you can also get a plane tree in the garden.
Of course, fruit trees are also suitable as house trees. Depending on their size and growth, they can be integrated into both large and small gardens.