Courtyard gardens are treasured spaces that offer a sanctuary in the city. A key way to enhance their design is to think about adding a strong focal point. What gives a courtyard garden design real structure and character is the addition of a small ornamental tree – or a few if you have the space to dot them about.
Choose a striking specimen tree that offers a shapely outline year round, blossom or flowers in spring, an attractive leafy canopy in summer, and berries or colored foliage in fall will add interest throughout the seasons as well as enhancing the design. If your courtyard is paved there are plenty of options for planting in super-sized decorative pots too. Add a bench beneath the tree where you can escape from the heat of summer.
