Tree & Shrub Specialist
Professional Tree & Shrub Planting in North London
Looking for professional tree and shrub planting in North London?
Our experienced team provides expert planting services, from small ornamental shrubs to mature trees, tailored to your landscape and long-term goals.
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Planting for Long-Term Health
The care and method used during planting are crucial to a tree’s future health. Poor planting technique is one of the most common reasons newly planted trees fail to thrive. At Custom Cutters, we use best-practice planting methods to reduce stress on the tree and give it the strongest start possible. From proper depth and spacing to staking, mulching, and initial watering, we tailor each planting job to suit the species and conditions. Whether you’re planting a specimen tree or a row of shrubs, we approach each project with precision and care.
When to Plant Trees and Shrubs
The best time to plant trees and shrubs is during the dormant season, from November to March, when root systems can establish before the demands of spring and summer growth. However, with the right handling and watering regime, planting can also be successful throughout the growing season—from April to October. Our team will advise you on the best timing and aftercare plan based on the species, soil type, and location. We work across gardens, parks, developments, and commercial spaces throughout North London.
Different trees are appropriate for different locations and we will provide recommendations on the most suitable species for each situation. We are able to try and source any tree you are looking for but in case you need some ideas, the most commonly planted tree species we are planting at present are as follows:
- Amelanchier arborea Robin Hill
- Amelanchier lamarckii
- Arbutus unedo
- Betula utilis jacquemontii
- Corylus colurna
- Ginkgo biloba
- Gleditsia triacanthos Sunburst
- Lagerstromeia indica Rosea
- Ligustrum japonicum
- Liquidambar styraciflua
- Liriodendron tulifirea
- Metasequoia glyptostroboides
- Nyssa sylvatica
- Parrotia persica
- Pittosporum tenuifolium
- Pyrus chanticleer
- Taxus baccata
- Thuja plicata
Enhance Your Landscape with Expert Planting
Our planting service includes everything you need—from ground preparation to aftercare guidance. Whether you’re rewilding a garden or adding structure to a commercial space, Custom Cutters can provide expert planting solutions across North London. We take pride in planting trees that not only look good on day one but thrive for years to come.
Ready to Transform Your Outdoor Space?
We specialise in tree and shrub planting across North London, using proven methods to ensure long-term success. Whether you’re planting one tree or many, we offer expert advice, sourcing, and care. Fully insured and experienced, we’ll make sure your new plants thrive.
Tree & Shrub Planting in North London FAQs
Removing a tree stump may seem straightforward, but there are often more considerations than people realise. Whether you’re concerned about safety, future landscaping, or pest prevention, stump grinding is an effective and efficient solution. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we receive about our stump grinding services in North London.
When is the best time to plant trees and shrubs?
The ideal time to plant trees and shrubs is during the dormant season, typically between November and March. During this period, trees are not actively growing, which allows their roots to establish without the stress of supporting new foliage. Planting in cooler months reduces shock and helps prepare the tree for the spring growing season. However, it is still possible to plant successfully during the growing season—April to October—as long as the trees are handled with care and provided with a thorough watering schedule. At Custom Cutters, we tailor our approach to the time of year, ensuring your trees and shrubs have the best possible start no matter when you choose to plant.
How do I choose the right tree or shrub for my garden?
Selecting the right species depends on several factors: soil type, available sunlight, drainage, space constraints, and your desired aesthetic. Fast-growing trees may provide quick results but might not suit small spaces. Some species have invasive root systems, while others are better suited to structured urban planting. At Custom Cutters, we offer expert guidance to help you choose species that will thrive in your specific location. We consider not just the look of the tree but its long-term behaviour and maintenance needs. Whether you’re after seasonal colour, privacy screening, or an ornamental feature, we’ll help you select the most appropriate trees or shrubs for your North London property.
Can you supply the trees or shrubs as well as plant them?
Yes, we offer a complete planting service that includes sourcing, supplying, and planting trees and shrubs. We work with trusted nurseries and suppliers to source high-quality specimens, including a wide range of ornamental, evergreen, and native trees. If you already know the species you want, we’ll do our best to source it. If not, we can recommend popular options suited to your goals and space. Some of the species we regularly plant include Betula utilis ‘Jacquemontii’, Pyrus ‘Chanticleer’, and Liquidambar styraciflua, among others. Whether you want a single specimen tree or a coordinated planting scheme, we manage the process from start to finish with professionalism and care.
Can you plant trees or shrubs near buildings or fences?
Yes, but careful planning is essential. When planting close to buildings, boundary walls, or fences—which is common in many North London gardens—we select species with controlled or non-invasive root systems. We also consider the mature height and spread to avoid future conflicts with structures, windows, or neighbouring properties. For example, smaller trees like Amelanchier or Corylus colurna are ideal for tight spots, while larger trees may require root barriers or greater clearance. Our arborists ensure all planting follows best practice guidelines and will explain any risks and solutions clearly, so your new plants can thrive without causing structural concerns later on.
Do newly planted trees need ongoing care?
Yes, proper aftercare is essential to the health and survival of newly planted trees and shrubs. The first 12–24 months are particularly important, as the plant establishes its root system. Regular watering is critical, especially if planting occurs during warmer months. Mulching can help retain moisture and reduce weed competition. We also recommend checking support stakes, ties, and guards regularly to prevent damage or girdling. At Custom Cutters, we provide detailed aftercare advice with every planting project and can schedule follow-up visits if needed. By following the right maintenance routine, you can greatly improve the success rate and long-term health of your new trees and shrubs.
What trees are best suited for North London’s climate and soil?
North London’s urban environment offers a mix of clay-heavy and well-draining soils, and our team is experienced in choosing species that perform well in these conditions. Popular and reliable choices include Pyrus ‘Chanticleer’, Betula utilis ‘Jacquemontii’, Liquidambar styraciflua, and Amelanchier lamarckii—all of which we regularly plant for clients across the region. We also consider the tree’s tolerance to pollution, drought, and restricted rooting space, which are common challenges in city gardens. If you’re unsure what will work in your garden, we’ll guide you through the options and recommend species that align with your goals, space, and local environment.
Can you plant mature trees, or just young saplings?
We can plant trees at all stages of maturity, from young whips and container-grown shrubs to large, semi-mature or fully mature trees. Mature tree planting is more complex and requires specialist equipment and handling to avoid root damage or instability. The advantage of mature planting is the immediate visual impact and structure it brings to a landscape—ideal for clients looking to transform a space quickly. Our team is experienced in lifting, positioning, and securing large trees safely, even in restricted-access North London gardens. We also ensure that the soil is well-prepared and that the tree has adequate support to establish successfully. Whether you’re creating a new focal point or replacing an older tree, we can help you achieve lasting results with mature planting solutions.
Can you plant trees and shrubs in small urban gardens in North London?
Yes—many of our clients in North London live in properties with small or narrow gardens, especially in areas like Islington, Highbury, and Camden. We specialise in selecting and planting species that thrive in compact spaces without becoming overbearing or damaging nearby structures. From columnar trees that provide vertical interest without taking up too much width, to ornamental shrubs that add colour and form, we tailor every planting scheme to suit the dimensions of your garden. Our team will assess soil quality, drainage, light levels, and root space to ensure the trees or shrubs we plant are appropriate for long-term growth in your specific location.
Do you provide aftercare or maintenance for newly planted trees?
Yes—we offer comprehensive aftercare advice and can provide ongoing maintenance services for newly planted trees and shrubs. This is especially important in urban settings like North London, where heat, compacted soil, and limited irrigation can put stress on young plants. After planting, we’ll advise you on watering schedules, mulching, and when to check supports or tree ties. If you’d prefer a hands-off approach, we can schedule follow-up visits to inspect growth, carry out formative pruning, and ensure the tree or shrub is establishing as it should. Our goal is not just to plant a tree—but to help it thrive long-term.
Trusted Tree Surgeons Serving North London
Our team of certified tree surgeons, located in North London, provides a comprehensive array of tree care services to various towns and boroughs in the surrounding area, ensuring utmost expertise and quality:
If you would like to have a detailed conversation about your specific tree care needs, our dedicated team is here to listen, offer expert advice, and tailor our services to match your unique preferences and concerns.