Trees can add value to homes, and they add beauty to gardens. Trees not only raise curb appeal but have practical benefits too.
Trees help to cool homes and provide shade, and they also play a part in human health. Trees improve air quality by generating oxygen and removing emissions. In one year, a fully grown tree can absorb over 48 lbs of carbon dioxide while providing oxygen.
However, some thought needs to be made when planting trees.
Can you plant any tree you want in your backyard?
The tree specialists at Trufast have some advice for the best species to plant in a backyard.
Any tree that will outgrow your garden should be avoided. Therefore, the Chinese tallow is impractical because it grows 40 ft tall, and 30 ft wide.
Geography is also important. The USDA has rated each area of the country according to plant hardiness. Some trees thrive in harsh environments while others wither away.
Even when a tree is suitable for your region, you must carefully consider where it is to be planted.
Why should certain trees be planted away from buildings?
If trees are planted too near a building then they can cause certain nuisances, and in some cases cause genuine hazards.
Leaves and small twigs block gutters and drains. Trees also damage homes when they fall down in heavy winds.
Large trees require strong roots, and when they spread they may cause structural damage. Homeowners who want to make budget home improvements often opt for patios, walkways, or decking. All of these can be damaged and lifted by tree roots.
Which trees should not be planted near a home?
Any tree as big as the Chinese tallow requires large roots so that rules that particular species out. As a general rule, small trees should never be planted closer than 10 ft from a home, but this distance should be increased for larger species.
Here are 8 other trees that should never be planted too close to a home. And in some cases, shouldn’t be planted in a backyard at all.
Oak trees in general
Some oak trees grow to over 100 ft when mature, and even smaller species can reach 50 ft easily. Therefore, oak trees need strong roots. The roots of an oak tree can spread out 3 times the width of the canopy.
Cottonwood
This species has a weak root system, and the cottonwood is susceptible to rotting. Any cottonwood that is planted near a home will present a danger during heavy winds.
Interestingly, it is possible to make lumber from dead trees. So, if you have a cottonwood that is damaged beyond fixing, you might be able to recover some lumber.
Lombardy poplar
Many poplar trees are unsuitable for small gardens, or to be near any buildings. The Lombardy poplar can grow up to 60 ft tall and has very invasive roots.
Mimosa
These popular species grow quickly and produce an abundance of seeds. Mimosa seeds are very hardy and germinate fast. In theory, planting a mimosa tree in your garden could lead to a mini forest breaking out.
Eucalyptus
The eucalyptus is one of the fastest-growing trees. Because eucalyptus trees grow rapidly, they need a root system that spreads. This can spell trouble for foundations and pipework.
Weeping willow
This magnificent-looking tree offers shade and shelter. But, weeping willows can grow 100 ft tall and require very large spaces.
A popular way to increase privacy in a backyard is to grow trees. A weeping willow would certainly block out prying eyes, but they have invasive roots that can cause damage.
Bradford pear
Many gardeners like the beauty of Bradford pear trees, but their branches are weak. The branches of Bradford pear trees break easily during adverse weather.
Empress tree
The empress tree has adventitious roots that might enter pipework causing damage. Ideally, the empress tree needs a large area to grow in.
Picking the best trees for a garden
Selecting the right tree can be tricky, but arborists offer good advice and will help with planting. The USDA plant hardiness map is another valuable tool. This map shows what species grow well in different regions.
The Japanese maple, American hornbeam, and flowering dogwood make good choices for backyards. The American hornbeam in particular grows well in most zones. This makes it a good choice for many homeowners.
Summary
Some trees grow incredibly quickly such as the eucalyptus. Therefore, care must be taken when choosing trees to grow near homes. Invasive root systems present problems to foundations, and garden features such as patios.
Other trees such as the Bradford pear may appear suitable, but they also present a hazard due to their inherent weakness. If you are unsure of what trees to plant, then consult with a local arborist.
