Standards

Standard Tree Information

Standard trees are sized by their girth 1 metre above the ground in centimetres. As an example, an 8/10 standard has a circumference (waist measurement) of between 8 and 10cms measured 1 metre up from soil level when planted. It is impossible to be accurate about the height of a standard tree as even trees of the same variety grow at different rates (just look at any woodland). However, as a (strictly non-legally binding) generalisation, the vast majority of standard trees are their size or a bit more in feet. So an 8/10 standard is generally about 8+ to 10+ feet tall. Usually our standards are at the top end of the scale - an 8/10 is more likely to be 10-11 feet than 8-9 feet tall. If you are unsure, please do ask as heights can vary considerably - a Himalayan Birch 10/12 standard can be up to 6 metres tall because it grows so fast, while a Green Beech 10/12 may only be 3 metres because it is naturally a slower growing tree.

We lift our standard trees to order, so please allow three weeks from the time you order to delivery.

Specimen and ornamental trees need a little more care when planting than smaller bare-rooted plants. Please remember that all standard trees need a stout stake and at least one tree tie (2 for 10/12 standards) to ensure their stability after planting. We also strongly recommend the use of Mycorrhizae - fungi that associate in a beneficial way with plant roots. If you wish to shop for these elsewhere they can be found with trade names such as "1-Step" or "Rootgrow" and they certainly increase the speed at which larger trees establish. For more detailed step by step planting instructions take a look at our guide to Planting Trees

If you are looking for a specimen fruit tree, then it is best to look in our Fruit Trees section where you will find our full fruit list.