In the landscaping industry today, one question is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore: are the tree species we’re planting today suited to the climates they’ll experience in the decades to come? For nurseries, landscape architects, contractors and local authorities alike, this is no longer a theoretical discussion, but a practical consideration in how we plan, grow and specify trees for future landscapes. At Hillier Trees, we’ve held conversations with customers covering this shift over the past few years.
Last year in particular, a questionnaire was sent out to clients across the landscaping and public realm sectors that painted a clear picture: Not only is there growing interest in climate-resilient tree species, but there is also a strong desire for decisions to be grounded in evidence rather than speculation. Designers and contractors today are increasingly asking nurseries to focus on the bigger picture and understand how species will perform not just in today’s conditions, but also in the next 30, 50 or even 100 years. The truth we found is that the climate itself is already sending clear signals.
What the climate is telling us
In January alone, our field tree production operations at Andlers Ash recorded approximately 239mm of rainfall within a single month. Across the nursery’s 500 acres of field-grown trees, this equated to around 107 million gallons of water falling across the site in just four weeks.
Significant shifts in the climate such as this illustrate how weather patterns are becoming more extreme and less predictable. While heavy rainfall is one side of the equation, many parts of the UK are also experiencing longer periods of drought and heat stress during the summer months. For growers and landscape professionals, these changing conditions reinforce the importance of understanding how different species will perform over time.
Taking a science-led approach
To better understand how future climate conditions may affect tree suitability within the UK, we commissioned a study with Urban Plant Lab that examined seventeen commonly planted landscape tree species across 23 UK cities, analysing their current climatic suitability alongside projected future conditions using plant trait data, global species distribution records and climate modelling.
The results from the findings suggest that the outlook for many of the species currently used in UK landscapes remains positive. In fact, most of the species assessed demonstrated moderate or high suitability for both current and future climate conditions.
However, the research conducted also emphasized that climate change won’t have a universal effect on the UK. Instead, every region within the country will suffer in various ways, with northern and western areas expecting to remain broadly suitable for many existing species, while parts of the south-east may experience greater pressure as temperatures rise and summer rainfall becomes less reliable.
Additionally, the study also suggests that species such as Betula pendula, Prunus avium and Tilia cordata may become increasingly vulnerable in Southeast England towards the end of the century, highlighting the importance of considering regional differences when planning future planting.
Trialling the next generation of trees
Alongside the work we’ve put into our operations following this study by Urban Plant Lab, we’ve also been carrying out our own production trials over the past three years, evaluating species that aren’t currently a part of our commercial growing programme but may have potential for future production. As with any trial programme, some species have performed well while others have presented challenges in terms of growth rate, form or propagation.
But identifying species that may be suited to future climates is only part of the equation, as those trees must also be commercially viable to grow in UK nurseries, capable of being produced at scale and delivered to the market at the sizes required for landscape projects. Simply importing unfamiliar species from Southern Europe is unlikely to provide a reliable long-term solution if those trees cannot be successfully grown and supplied within the UK nursery system.
Research through collaboration
In the end, developing a climate-resilient tree supply will require collaboration across the entire sector. Fortunately, many world-leading research institutions within the UK are doing just that, studying plant science, urban forestry and climate change in detail. By bringing together researchers, commercial growers, landscape professionals and local authorities, the industry can develop practical solutions that can be delivered at scale.
Continued government support will also play an important role in enabling the research and trials needed to expand the range of viable tree species available to the market.
Working with clients and communities
At Hillier, we’re currently working with several clients on projects where the boundaries of traditional tree selection are being explored, enabling us to trial promising species within real landscapes while gathering valuable feedback on how they perform in different environments. As part of these efforts, we also recently partnered with Tree Musketeers, who are planting trial species across residential estates and public green spaces.
Projects such as these help researchers understand how newer species perform in urban environments while also engaging local communities in the long-term stewardship of their urban trees.
Looking ahead
The question of whether the trees we are planting today are fit for tomorrow’s climate doesn’t have a simple answer. While evidence suggests many of the species currently used in UK landscapes will remain viable for decades to come, climate change is also likely to reshape growing conditions in specific parts of the country, meaning diversification and forward planning will become increasingly important. For the landscaping industry, the key will be maintaining a balanced, science-led approach and continuing to plant proven species; all while gradually introducing new ones that may build resilience for the future.
Most importantly, these conversations need to start early. Engaging with nurseries during the planning stages of major landscape projects allows time to consider species selection, availability and potential contract growing opportunities. Because when it comes to trees, the decisions we make today will shape our landscapes for generations.
Anyone working within the landscaping industry understands the important role trees play in any space. In addition to improving biodiversity, the right tree can transform any housing development or private estate into a garden paradise. Hillier recognises this, which is why we are committed to growing and supplying trees that are the perfect fit for all landscapes around the UK.
We’ve written this article to highlight our five favourite picks for customers looking to purchase trees that excel in reliability, form, and performance.
The Liquidambar styraciflua ‘Worplesdon’ is an excellent choice for customers looking to add a vivid green palette to their parks or public open spaces during the warmer months. As summer shifts to autumn, its leaves shift to richer shades of amber, crimson and deep purple each, creating a tree that offers striking seasonal interest.
‘Worplesdon’ trees also have strong resistance against frost and wind, along with a sturdy upright form, making them ideal for landscape projects that rely on long-term visual impact.
Acer campestre ‘Streetwise’ (Streetwise Field Maple)
When it comes to finding a tree that supports urban planning projects, Acer campestre ‘Streetwise’ is one of the best field maples out there to choose from thanks to its narrow, upright canopy, and ability to thrive in almost any soil type.
The ‘Streetwise’ variety offers golden autumn colour and strong resistance against drought and waterlogging, making it a fantastic choice for landscapes that focus on vehicles and foot traffic, including car parks, pathways, and streets.
Ulmus ‘New Horizon’ (New Horizon Elm)
For those wanting to introduce elm to their landscape with a vibrant spectacle in the summer and autumn months, the Ulmus ‘New Horizon’[GS1] is a favourite of ours. Not only does it offer impressive visual appeal, but it’s incredibly resistant against Dutch Elm Disease and thrives in several landscapes, such as streets, parks, and large open spaces.
Pyrus calleryana ‘Chanticleer’ (Ornamental Pear)
One of the more popular performers in our tree range, the Pyrus calleryana ‘Chanticleer’ retains its foliage far longer than most trees, thanks in part to its compact form and an upright crown. Known for the vibrant white flowers it blossoms, the ‘Chanticleer’ specialises in adding a beautiful shade of green well into the more orange and red autumn months, making it an ideal pick for landscapers looking to spruce up any streets, car parks, or courtyards.
Carpinus betulus ‘Lucas’ (Lucas Hornbeam)
For landscapers looking for a tree that is both elegant and robust, Carpinus betulus ‘Lucas’ is an excellent option. With its proud, upright shape, it is a clear winner for anyone looking to decorate formal avenues, housing developments and landscapes.
‘Lucas’ trees can thrive in a wide range of soil conditions, are easy to prune and resistant to wind and pollution. Unlike many other hornbeams, ‘Lucas’ retains its foliage throughout the colder winter months, making it a stand-out winner for landscapers.
Closing Thoughts
Choosing the right tree is essential for enhancing the look and feel of any landscaping project. In this article, we highlighted five trees that we know from experience are ideal for adorning your landscaping projects. With over 160 years of horticultural experience and a deep commitment to sustainable growing, Hillier Trees has the expertise and range to help you select the right tree for every environment.
If you want to learn more on availability, specifications and advice for picking the best trees for your landscape, get in touch with us.
Hillier Garden Centres reveals the exclusive release of its new ‘Crown of Christmas’ pink poinsettia as a means of celebrating the festive season.
Hillier has also announced £2 from every purchase of the plant will be donated to The King’s Foundation.
Emma Fell, head of horticulture at Hillier explains the new poinsettia is “not only a standout festive plant, but its launch also provides an opportunity to support the inspiring work of The King’s Foundation”.
Available now, the plant will be sold in limited quantities over the festive period.
John, the eldest son of Sir Harold Hillier, was born in Winchester and spent his life surrounded by plants.
At 17 years old, his father developed Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, where he worked briefly, before serving National Service in Libya. John then gained experience in U.S. nurseries while observing plant production until he came home and used that knowledge to help modernise Hillier on his return.
John also led Hillier’s award-winning exhibits at RHS Chelsea Flower Show, achieving a total of 74 consecutive Gold medals.
A pollinator-friendly plant, the compact shrub was bred by retired Hillier plant developer, Alan Postill.
The plant produces masses of pink and citrus-scented flowers from late spring into early summer, making it the world’s first pink Philadelphus, while it is fragrant with jasmine.
Currently being featured by Sparsholt College at RHS Chelsea, in its garden which highlights climate-resilient plants.
Notably, the plant attracted 53 votes out of 130 judges.
Hosta ‘Silly String’ and Salvia TROPICOLOUR SUNRISE take joint second place.
Founded by His Royal Majesty King Charles III in 1990, the community placemaking charity celebrates its 35th anniversary this year.
The collaboration will see Hillier contribute its expertise to current initiatives, such as community and education projects at Highgrove Gardens to support local school children develop gardening skills.
Chairman George Hillier says he is “delighted” to be working with the charity, adding:
“This partnership is more than just a short-term collaboration – it’s a long-term investment in sustainability and education.”
Climate change is no longer a distant concern. It’s a reality that’s already reshaping the way we approach tree selection and planting. Extreme weather, shifting seasons, and the rise of new pests and diseases are all influencing decisions across the landscaping and horticulture industries. The trees we plant today need to be able to thrive in the climate of tomorrow.
At Hillier Trees, we wanted to understand exactly how these challenges are affecting professionals in the field. So, we surveyed landscape contractors, landscape architects, local authorities, and other industry experts to get their insights on climate resilient tree selection. Their responses highlight the growing need for smarter tree choices, the hurdles they face, and the support they need to make informed, sustainable decisions.
The long-term impact of climate change
When asked about the long-term impact of climate change on the tree industry, the response was clear: it’s going to be significant. A staggering 75% of professionals foresee a major impact on the industry. Only a small fraction, 2%, feel that the impact will be minimal and 6% consider it to be moderate. This reflects a growing recognition that the tree industry needs to prepare for major changes ahead.
A closer look at the tree planting taking place at Hillier Trees.
The growing demand for climate adapted species
The survey also revealed a strong consensus on the future of climate adapted species. When asked whether tree nurseries should offer more climate resilient species in the coming years, 45% of respondents said yes, but gradually, while 35% expect a significant increase in the availability of these species. This shows a clear trend toward incorporating climate resilience into future tree selection, albeit at different paces across the industry.
Barriers to climate resilient tree selection
Despite the growing need for climate adapted trees, professionals face several barriers to adopting these species in their work. The top challenges identified in the survey were:
Availability of species: The difficulty of sourcing the right trees was the most significant barrier, followed closely by concerns about lack of information. These two issues go hand-in-hand as having access to the right knowledge is crucial when making the right tree choices.
Cost: While cost isn’t the highest-ranking barrier, it remains a significant consideration. Budget constraints still play a large role in decision making, even in the face of growing climate challenges.
Customer preferences: Despite the growing awareness of climate issues, some clients are still more focused on aesthetics and tradition rather than selecting species based on climate resilience.
Uncertainty around climate predictions: There’s also some hesitance to embrace climate adapted species due to uncertainty about how climates will evolve in the coming decades.
These barriers highlight the need for better resources, clearer guidance, and more reliable species options. However, broader, systematic challenges such as policy constraints, urban planning limitations, and economic incentives that may not currently support climate resilient choices also need to be addressed.
What matters most in tree selection?
Beyond availability and budget, industry professionals are thinking long term. They want trees that are:
Healthy and long lived – Beyond aesthetics, trees need to be healthy, long-lived, and able to provide environmental benefits.
Suited to their environment – Drought-tolerant trees for dry areas, flood-resistant species for wetter regions.
Resistant to pests and diseases – Species prone to issues are being avoided where possible.
Native trees are still popular, but there’s growing recognition that they may not always be the best choice in a warming climate. The focus is shifting toward species that can adapt and thrive in changing conditions. However, the trade offs between native and non-native species require further exploration, particularly regarding their long-term ecological impact.
Hillier Trees Broadmead Container Nursery Reservoir
Challenges and shifting practices
Climate change is already altering how trees are sourced and planted. Over 65% of respondents have adjusted their practices due to droughts, extreme weather, and pests. Some species like Quercus robur are harder to find due to pests such as the Oak Processionary Moth, while diseases have made Ulmus minor and Fraxinus excelsior more difficult to source.
For some professionals, these challenges have led to a change in approach, focusing more on specifying suitable trees.
Sustainability and carbon footprint: A growing priority
Interestingly, carbon footprint considerations aren’t yet a top priority in tree selection, but they’re gaining traction. While 28% of respondents don’t consider the carbon footprint of tree nurseries at all, 33% do factor it into their decisions.
UK-grown trees are increasingly preferred, with many professionals highlighting their lower transportation impact and better adaptation to local conditions. More broadly, there’s recognition that planting trees – wherever they come from – plays a crucial role in carbon sequestration and climate mitigation.
Confidence in climate resilient trees: A work in progress
The survey revealed a knowledge gap when it comes to selecting trees for future climates. Only 4% of respondents said that they were very confident in choosing climate resilient species, while 27% considered it a high priority but weren’t always sure which trees to pick.
What could help?
Expert advice based on climate projections: Many professionals said they’d value specialist recommendations.
Clear, practical guides on climate resilient trees: 65% of respondents said they’d find this useful.
More project specific information: Industry professionals want real world examples of ongoing support.
What the industry wants next
Across the board, the call for better resources was clear. When asked what kind of support would help professionals make more informed tree selection decisions in response to climate challenges, the answers were telling:
73% of respondents would appreciate regular updates on climate resilient species, reflecting a strong desire for more up-to-date information.
66% want best practices for sustainable tree sourcing, which speaks to the growing demand for ethical and climate conscious sourcing methods.
58% are also seeking data on long term climate projections for tree growth, underlining the importance of understanding how species will fare in the changing environment over the long term.
Looking ahead: Adapting to a changing climate
The results from our survey reflect a strong recognition that the tree industry needs to evolve in response to climate change. There’s a growing awareness that the trees we plant today need to be chosen with the future in mind. As professionals continue to adapt to the challenges of climate change, it’s clear that support in the form of expert guidance, better access to information, and more climate-resilient species will be critical.
With the right resources, the industry can ensure that trees not only survive but thrive in the face of changing environmental conditions. While challenges lie ahead, there are also exciting opportunities to create landscapes that are more resilient, sustainable, and future proof.
Our survey makes one thing clear: the trees we plant today must be chosen with the future in mind. With 75% of industry professionals expecting climate change to have a significant impact, tree selection can’t be based on tradition or gut instinct. It needs to be backed by science.
At Hillier Trees, we’re committed to making that happen. That’s why we’ve partnered with experts to take a research-led approach to climate resilient tree selection. We’ve commissioned the Urban Plant Lab to carry out a detailed review, and we look forward to sharing their findings by Autumn 2025.
Construction begins on Hillier’s new sustainable growing facility, located at its Hampshire nursery, in an effort to facilitate all-year-round growing potential.
As weather conditions continue to fluctuate, Hillier says it was seeking a “solution to enable its growing team” to produce plants at the right time of year, regardless of weather.
The new structure spans 1.2 hectares of the 40-hectare Hillier container nurseries, with the ability to deliver stable temperatures due its heightened air mass and 45% roof venting capacity; keeping plants cool in summer and warmer in the winter.
Offering high levels of light transmission to facilitate plant growth, as well as a contemporary precision irrigation system to enable accurate water delivery.
Temperature, humidity and air movement will be regulated throughout the structure by an environmental computer linked to fans and vents, while 20% of the custom-build greenhouse will be covered by an automated shade screen, responsive to light levels.
Once established, plants will be watered from below via a capillary floor, to reduce the risk of disease. While a liquid feed system will enable the feeding of plants to optimise crop nutrition.
Designed by Belgium company, VDH Foliekassen, and installed by Agrowser with internal fittings and project management by Ebtech, the new growing facility has specifically been designed for its suitability for the range of plants Hillier grows.
Chris Francis, retail and wholesale director says the team are looking forward to start potting in the greenhouse this autumn.
“We’ve been searching for a new structure to enable us to grow better plants in sustainable growing media, at an efficient rate, maximising the number of plants we can grow, no matter the weather, and this delivers exactly that!”
Returning headline sponsors for this year’s BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair, Hillier, is stepping away from tradition with its garden at this year’s upcoming show.
The garden has been cultivated to match the New Forest surroundings of the show, embodying a traditional woodland filled with natural woodland plants, from, Hellebores and Ferns to Cowslip and Primroses.
Chris Francis, wholesale and retail director at Hillier says this year’s design will focus more on “naturalistic planting and cultivated areas”, and is “completely unique in comparison” to the nursery’s usual style.
With mixed height planting to create a more “dynamic effect”, as well as a canopy of large semi-mature trees, enabling light to filter through.
Narrow park paths will resemble forest pathways and animal racks, with stumps and wood piles to create habitats for insects.
Attendees to the event will also have the opportunity to receive advice from the team, alongside the chance to see a number of new plants being introduced from the nursery.
BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair will be taking place at Beaulieu in Hampshire from 3 to 5 May.
The chairman of Hillier Nurseries, Robert Hillier has announced he will be stepping down from the role after more than 50 years.
George Hillier will be taking over as chairman of the family-run business from 1 January 2024, while Robert remains at the company on a part-time basis as a board director.
“It has been a privilege to be at the forefront of this company for so long. I am extremely proud to be handing over to the next generation of the Hillier family,” says Robert Hillier.
“We are a business that has always looked to the future, so it is wonderful to see George take the reins and continue to build on the fantastic achievements of the last 160 years.”
George Hillier has worked in the company for over 20 years, beginning as a garden centre assistant, working his way up the chain.
George Hillier – Hillier Garden Centres and Nurseries. Credit: Hillier Garden Centres and Nurseries
He has managed the company’s recent property acquisitions and developments, expanding Hillier’s portfolio from 12 to 22 garden centres, as well acquiring additional land for growth in the Hillier tree nurseries.
Georgie Hillier comments: “I’m looking forward to the opportunities ahead of us. These are exciting times for Hillier following our recent acquisitions and our launch of online shopping.
“The world is experiencing some uncertain times right now, but we have a strong and experienced team at Hillier who support our values and our vision and care about our customers, so we’re in a great position to look at what’s next for our business and continue the growth that my predecessors championed for decades.”
In Hillier’s almost 160 years there have only been four chairmen.
Hillier is expanding its sponsorship of BBC Gardener’s World Live in 2023 after some “amazing responses” to its first show as a partner last year.
The company will sponsor the Let’s Talk Plants Stage for the second year running while also supporting two show gardens by Paul Stone and Lucy Hutchings.
Chris Francis, Hillier Garden Centre and Wholesale Nurseries director, said: “Last year’s show was our first time as a sponsor and we loved it – it was a fantastic show for us and we had some amazing responses from visitors. So much so that we wanted to return with an even bigger and better offering.”
As you might expect, the Let’s Talk Plants Stage, hosted by David Hurrion, will see plant specialists deliver various sessions and talks, with guest appearances from the likes of Sue Kent, Carol Klein and Alan Titchmarsh.
Hillier’s Charles Carr, head of wholesale nurseries, will also take to the stage to showcase the companies new plant introductions for 2023.
Paul Stone’s ‘A Garden Fit for a King’ is said to be inspired by Highgrove Arboretum, incorporating the King’s favourite trees and a wildflower carpet. “The idea behind the garden is to inspire visitors to incorporate sustainable initiatives into their own gardens, just as King Charles III has done at Highgrove. Hillier is supplying an array of plants and trees to be included in Paul’s regal garden, and will be supporting Paul throughout the event, manning the garden and providing expert advice to visitors.”
Meanwhile, Lucy Hutchings’ ‘The Secret Homestead’ garden “aims to break away from the traditional grow-your-own vision and explore the ideas of what an edible garden can be. Featuring a dramatic black, white, and coral colour scheme, Lucy plans to fill her show garden with dual-purpose edible plants and flowers, handmade sculptures, and mushroom gardens.”
