Crowning Glory: Celebrate King’s Birthday with Regal Tree Selections

As Winter nears, nature’s enduring beauty reminds us of King Charles’ deep commitment to sustainability and thoughtful tree selection. His Majesty’s Highgrove Gardens are a testament to heritage, resilience and environmental stewardship. Some New Zealand gardens of significance would be Hamilton Gardens and Trott’s Garden encompassing that English heritage.

Hamilton Gardens

Cephalotaxus harringtonia Fastigiata + Buxus - Hamilton Gardens August 2020

Cephalotaxus harringtonia Fastigiata and Buxus

Trott’s Garden

Betula & Buxus cones - Trotts Garden December 2021

Betula & Buxus cones

A Royal Selection: Trees That Inspire

Among his most cherished choices is the Magnolia var., celebrated for its delicately scented blossoms and graceful Winter silhouette. Even bare, its textured bark and elegant form offer timeless charm.

The Castanea sativa, towering at 20 metres, brings grandeur and ecological benefits, with its rich patterned bark standing as a seasonal focal point.

Adding to this royal collection is the Betula, or Silver Birch. Its slender, elegant frame and striking white bark create a mesmerising contrast against the Winter landscape, embodying both simplicity and strength. With delicate branches and subtle movement in the wind, it reflects nature’s quiet grace.

Winter’s subtle beauty

Though foliage may fade, Winter highlights a tree’s form and texture. The Aesculus hippocastanum, with its intricate bark patterns, transforms into a living sculpture, offering a stark yet inspiring presence against the cool sky. Every bare tree whispers a promise of renewal, preparing for Spring’s return.

Bringing Regal Influence to Your Garden

This King’s Birthday, let the wisdom of His Majesty’s garden inspire your own green space. Whether planting new trees or appreciating the structural beauty of those already standing, each decision contributes to a sustainable future. Consider blending deciduous trees with evergreens for year-round appeal or selecting species that align with the King’s environmental vision.

With every tree planted, we honour both tradition and the natural world. As Winter unfolds, may your garden reflect the passion, principles, and quiet majesty that define King Charles’ beloved landscapes.

Harry Winter planting tips: One way to keep your hands warm in Winter is to keep them busy with some planting! It might sound like a strange time to do this but we’re operating on nature’s timeline here, and nature is making sure the soil is moist, while keeping bugs and plant diseases at bay. Your new plants will appreciate the time getting used to their new home before Spring kicks in.
Harry Winter Fruit Tree Pruning Tips: It's true alright. Some work now will reap a bountiful harvest next Summer, when you really do get to enjoy the fruits of your labour. The key is to stick to the 3 D's of pruning, getting rid of anything that's dead, diseased or damaged. Go about your work on a dry day and wear a few layers, so you can take them off as needed. Different fruit trees need to be pruned slightly differently but in general, just remember to not get too carried away. Trimming back by about 20% is a good rule of thumb.
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