This is how you propagate plants into cute mini-trees

Start by selecting a strong shoot that grows upwards, and support it with a stick that goes all the way up through the crown - the stick can be as long as you want the tree to eventually become. Then, trim away other shoots and leaves along the main stem, leaving only the leaves at the very top. Simply remove any new shoots that appear along the stem. As the plant gets older, the stem will become stronger. When the stem has reached the height you want after a while, you can top the plant. This will make the crown fuller. Use sharp pruning shears for a quicker healing of the cut. The crown will become more lush and dense if you prune the plant regularly. Tip! If the crown becomes too big or sparse over time, you can trim it or let the branches become longer and hang down towards the ground like a weeping willow.

Laburnum, sumac, dwarf iris, crabapple, gooseberry, currants, roses, maple, grafted cherry, lavender, rosemary, fig, coleus, tear, various types of citrus

Small trees in pots look great on the balcony or terrace, they also have the advantage of being able to be moved around as needed. However, if you have tall plants in a pot, you should protect the pot from frost in the winter, for example by moving it into a shed or garage or to a warm and protected outdoor location. The pot itself can also be insulated for extra protection against frost.,,Tall winter-hardy trees planted in the ground withstand the cold better, but usually benefit from a little extra care in the winter months. Plant the mini tree in a sheltered area from the wind, and cover it with burlap, pine branches, or similar when the weather is at its coldest.,,Many tall trees quickly turn into decorative silhouettes in the garden when frost arrives. If you want to highlight them a little more, you can decorate the crown with fairy lights when the evenings get dark.

Cherry, pear, and many other fruit trees can be trained and turned into mini trees. This also makes it easier to pick the berries or fruits. Other trees, like maple and small magnolias, are also suitable for training. Preferably choose small and slow-growing varieties. A tree, or a bush, that already resembles what you are trying to create is easier to shape. It is best to choose a specimen that already has a clear stem or trunk growing straight upward, making the job easier.

When you thin out plants, the ground underneath gets more sun. Take the opportunity to plant flowers or bulb plants underneath them, or how about a magical moss? Only imagination sets limits.

Liselotte Roll, Swedish garden inspirator, journalist and author of books about nature, cultivation and animals, such as "Earth", "Cultivate for Insects" and "Chickens as a Hobby".