Basic Tree Care Guides
Plant and tree care
Explore how to care for your gifted plant or tree with our expert seasonal advice and simple step-by-step guidance. Jump to your plant category below:
Native trees
Native British trees are hardy, easy to care for, and deeply rooted in the lore and landscape of the UK. They thrive outdoors and bring long-lasting beauty and wildlife value.
Getting started
Unwrap your tree immediately and check the root ball is moist. Keep the roots cool and out of direct sunlight until planting. Whether you're planting into the ground or a large container, do so as soon as possible and water daily during dry weather. Always water at the base — never on the leaves.
Choosing where to plant
Pick a permanent spot that suits your tree’s eventual size. For flexibility, opt for a large container (2–10 litres). Use a mix of topsoil and peat-free compost. Avoid planting large species or willows near buildings.
Seasonal tree advice:
Spring: Plant promptly if your tree is budding. Water well.
Summer: Trees grow fast and need more water. Avoid leaf watering.
Autumn: Trees are slowing down – great for planting.
Winter: Plant when frost-free and mulch roots for protection.
Helpful extras
Enhance growth with our tree care products.
Native wildflowers
For best results, sow native wildflower seed in spring or autumn. Prepare a fine, crumbly seed bed. Scatter the seed, rake lightly and firm the surface. Keep moist and weed-free until established.
Citrus trees
Citrus trees bring scent, flavour and sunshine indoors — and with the right care, they can thrive year-round.
Initial care
Unwrap your tree and place it in a bright, well-ventilated room. Let soil dry out before watering thoroughly. Never let the pot stand in water.
Temperature and light
Citrus dislike sudden changes. Keep above 4°C and below 15°C in winter. Avoid radiator heat.
Seasonal citrus advice:
Spring: Ventilate well to prevent overheating.
Summer: Acclimatise outdoors from May, gradually increasing sun exposure.
Autumn: Bring indoors before late October.
Winter: Keep near a sunny window. Ensure good air flow.
Watering and feeding
Allow the soil to dry, then soak thoroughly. Use citrus feed year-round for fruiting. Avoid cold water.
Pruning
Trim long branches to maintain shape and encourage bushy growth.
Buy feed: Citrus feed
Fruit trees
Fruit trees are a wonderful gift — symbolic, seasonal and satisfying.
Unpacking and placement
Unwrap and position in a sunny, sheltered outdoor spot. Water in dry spells, avoiding overwatering.
Seasonal fruit tree advice:
Spring: Support blossom and new growth.
Summer: Full sun helps fruit ripen. Net if birds are a problem.
Autumn: Harvest fruit by gently twisting off.
Winter: Prune while dormant and keep in full sun.
Care tips
Feed monthly in summer. Re-pot or plant out within 12 months. Use pots with drainage and a base layer of stones.
Pruning
Prune in December to shape and encourage healthy growth.
Ornamental trees
Ornamental trees add year-round elegance to patios, entrances or gardens.
Initial care
Unwrap and place outdoors in a bright, sheltered spot. Water consistently in warm weather but avoid overwatering.
Seasonal ornamental advice:
Spring: Position near a wall to protect from frost.
Summer: Adjust to sun exposure as needed.
Autumn: Move to a more sheltered spot before strong winds.
Winter: Keep in sun and protect from severe wind.
General tips
Feed monthly in summer. Re-pot within 6 months using well-drained soil. Prune lightly every two weeks in spring and summer for shape.
Rose bushes
Classic, fragrant and full of meaning — rose bushes are a treasured gift.
Arrival and planting
Unwrap immediately. Water if dry. Keep outside in sun until planting. Choose a sunny, well-drained location with airflow.
Seasonal rose advice:
Spring: Take care with budding roses.
Summer: Water daily at roots only. Deadhead spent flowers.
Autumn: Plant or prune. Dormancy begins.
Winter: Plant when frost-free. Mulch or fleece around roots.
Pruning
Cut back stems in early autumn to an outward-facing bud. Clear fallen leaves and debris to prevent disease.
Planting tips
Dig a wide hole. Mix soil, compost and rose food. Ensure containers have drainage. Water daily in dry weather.
Spacing
Allow 100cm between rose bushes if planting more than one.