Standard Trees and Plants

Standard trees, sometimes called 'lollipop' trees, are trees that have been grafted or trained to grow with a clear, straight stem and a neat ball or canopy of foliage on top - unlike normal trees which often branch low down, or shrubs which spread from the base. This gives a raised, sculptural look and saves ground space. They combine the height and structure of a tree with the compact footprint of a shrub, making them ideal for doorways, patios or narrow borders.

To keep a standard tree looking neat, prune lightly once a year - after flowering if it’s a flowering variety, or around late winter/early spring for evergreens. Trim new shoots to maintain the rounded canopy and remove any growth from the straight stem to preserve its clean shape. Light, regular pruning encourages healthy growth and keeps the 'lollipop' form tidy without risking plant health.

Staking supports a young standard tree until roots establish. Set two stakes on either side, angled out from the trunk to avoid the roots, and tie them loosely to the tree so it can sway slightly. Remove the stakes once the tree is stable - typically after one growing season (12–18 months). If left too long, stakes can hinder root development and make the tree reliant on them.

Yes - many standard trees thrive in large containers, especially evergreen or compact slow-growing varieties. Choose a roomy pot with good drainage, and a free-draining planting mix such as compost with added grit. Make sure the container is heavy enough to stay stable. Water regularly as container soil dries faster, and feed in spring with a slow-release fertiliser to support steady growth.

Compact or slow-growing standards such as bay, dwarf olive, small evergreen hollies, certain maples or crab apples (trained as standards), and laurel are good picks for small gardens or patios. Species known to remain relatively small and compact at maturity at ideal, avoiding overly large or wide-spreading varieties.

Water potted standards once or twice a week during warm weather, or more often if pots are shallow or placed in full sun, and less in cooler or rainy seasons. Feed annually in early spring with a slow-release fertiliser to support healthy foliage. Repot roughly every 2-4 years when roots become pot-bound, but check the plant's overall health and root density first, because re-potting isn't always necessary.

Standard trees like well-drained soil, ideally loamy or sandy with some organic matter. Avoid heavy clay soils that hold water, especially for container or potted plants, as these often benefit from added grit or drainage amendments. Plant on a slight slope or raised bed to help water run off, and good drainage prevents root rot and ensures healthy growth.

To avoid common problems, such as over-staking - do not tie the plant too tightly, leave some room for root development. Use wide, loose ties to prevent cutting into the bark. When potting or planting, gently spread the roots without packing or circling them. Ensure the soil around the roots is firm but not compacted, to ensure air and water can still circulate. Immediately after planting or potting, water well and mulch lightly (if ground-planted) to minimise transplant shock and help roots settle.