Posted on April 11, 2024 ; 1:58 pm

8 Types of trees not to plant close to a house – which ones to avoid.

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In this modern world, where urban spaces continue to expand rapidly, having trees around our living spaces is essential. They not only provide cleaner air and natural shade for us but also offer aesthetic benefits that beautify our homes and surroundings. However, planting a tree close to your home requires careful planning and consideration.

We will guide you through which trees are best to plant near your house and the ones to avoid.

The best choice: small to medium-sized trees

To avoid potential problems, it’s best to choose small-to-medium-sized trees that are more suitable for planting close to a house. These trees typically have slower growth rates and less invasive root systems, making them less likely to cause structural issues. They are low-maintenance, offering on-trend style and elegance, while still providing ample shade and greenery. Some of the best choices include:

  • Dogwoods (Cornus spp.) – known for their beautiful flowers and distinctive bark patterns, dogwoods are a popular choice for smaller yards.
  • Japanese Maples (Acer palmatum) – offering lovely foliage change in fall, these graceful trees can fit into tight spaces without causing trouble.
  • Crabapples (Malus spp.) – flowering crabapple trees provide both visual interest and shade, with stunning spring blossoms and attractive fruits come autumn.
  • Ornamental Cherry Trees (Prunus spp.) – serving as excellent focal points, these trees boast beautiful pink or white blooms in the springtime.

Gathering expert advice and shopping tips

Prior to planting any tree, consult experts at local nurseries or extension offices who can offer guidance based on your region’s soil conditions, climate, and other factors. Also, opt for purchasing quality trees from reputable sellers to ensure good growth and long-term success.

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Additional considerations when planting trees near your home

  • Spacing: Ensure that the trees are planted at a suitable distance from your house, taking into consideration their mature dimensions as well as room for their roots and branches.
  • Pruning: Regularly trimming and pruning your trees can help avoid potential problems related to overgrowth, branch breakages, or obstruction of views.
  • Maintenance: Stay up-to-date with routine maintenance tasks like watering and fertilizing to keep your trees in excellent health.

Trees to avoid in close proximity of your home

Before planting a tree, it is essential to research its mature dimensions and growth habits to ensure it doesn’t cause problems later on. The following are some types of trees you should avoid planting too close to your house:

1/Trees with fast-growing roots

2/Trees with invasive root systems requiring high volumes of water

3/Trees with large or heavy branches prone to breaking

These types of trees may damage not only your property’s walls and foundations but also disrupt drains and underground structures.

4/Oak trees (Quercus spp.)

Although oak trees are popular for their durable wood and elegant appearance, they can be a significant issue if planted too close to a building. With deep, extensive root systems and large canopies that require ample space to grow, it’s best to avoid planting them near your house.

5/Willow Trees (Salix spp.)

With drooping branches and a picturesque look, willow trees are undeniably beautiful. But they’re also known for their aggressive, water-seeking roots that can invade and damage pipes and foundations. Keep these trees at a safe distance from your property.

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6/Poplar trees (Populus spp.)

While poplars are fast-growing and provide excellent shade, they also have expansive root systems that can damage underground structures. And due to their softwood structure, they’re prone to breakage during winds or storms.

7/Norway maple (Acer platanoides)

Dense root systems can outcompete other plants for nutrients.

8/Sycamore trees (Platanus spp.)

Large size and root system can cause damage to nearby structures.

In conclusion, while it’s tempting to plant trees close to your home for their various benefits, make sure you choose wisely to avoid any potential damage to your property. Opt for small to medium-sized trees with slow-growing, non-invasive root systems, and always gather expert advice on what’s best for your region.

With the right choice and proper care, you can enjoy the full range of benefits these trees provide for years to come.

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