4 Tips to Follow When Choosing Where to Plant Trees
Where you choose to plant your tree or shrub has a big effect on the plant’s success and the overall functionality and health of your landscape in the future. Whether you have plenty of space to choose from or are deciding between one corner of the yard versus another, we have a few tips to help you with this decision.
1. Research the tree’s mature size
We want our shrubs and trees to have space to fully develop without crowding each other or other objects on your property. When planting trees, planning for the future of your landscape is critical, and that means giving the tree enough space. Researching the estimated size that your tree will be at maturity will enable you to have a better idea of the spacing that should be provided between trees and shrubs, and other objects. The general rule for spacing trees to protect the foundations, sewers, drains, and other trees on your property are allowing 10 feet for small trees, 20 feet for medium trees, and 30-50 feet for large trees. Like most, these guidelines may have exceptions based on your property. Large trees are stunning and add so much natural beauty to a property. However, there can also be more risk associated with larger trees. These should be planted at a safe distance from your home to avoid hazards such as branches falling, or the tree failing.
2. Do not plant trees or shrubs too close to your home
Planting shrubs too close to your house can lead to home damage. Plants retain moisture, and moisture can deteriorate the side of your home and lead to all kinds of nasty structural issues. Not only can the moisture be damaging, but it can also lead to termites. Termites are attracted to moisture and to plants, so be cautious of this when planting a shrub near your house. To prevent damage to your home from moisture or termites, plants should be kept at least a foot away from the exterior.
Planting a tree too close to your home can also be damaging, both to the tree and to your home. Hazards may occur such as branches falling onto the home during a storm, or even the whole tree failing and tipping onto your home. Not only should you be aware of these more commonly discussed hazards, but you should also consider how the tree may grow, and if it has the potential to grow into or against your house at any point. Whether that be the tree’s branches growing against your home and causing damage, or the tree roots causing issues with underground foundations such as water pipes or septic lines.
Damage to your home from trees can be very expensive, whether it be the structure becoming weak from moisture or termites, tree roots disrupting underground pipes, or tree branches damaging your roof. All of these are reasons why it’s important to be mindful of what may seem like a small decision at the moment, but can really make a huge difference in the end and save you from great expenses and headaches down the line.
3. Observe the surroundings
We’ve all seen sidewalks cracked and lifted up by a large, invasive tree root. This can be a tripping hazard and an eye-sore. It’s very important for trees to not be planted too close to sidewalks or driveways, as this can be damaging to both the tree and the sidewalk’s or driveway's structure. Oftentimes, people don't realize that they are planting the tree too close because they underestimate how large the tree roots are. For some trees, their roots can extend well beyond the farthest horizontal reaching branch. When the roots expand under driveways and sidewalks, or any structure, the tree is also put at risk. The tree’s dripline can become compromised and its access to water will become limited. The dripline of a tree falls on the outer edge of the tree's canopy, which for some trees, can be several feet away from the trunk. When compromised, the tree can become stressed and is at an increased risk of failure. If you are unsure if you are planting your tree too close to your driveway or a sidewalk, it’s probably best to error on the side of more space.
Not only do trees need room to grow their roots, but they need room to grow upward as well. Tall trees should never be planted under or near power lines. This is because trees that grow too close to utility wires can become a fire hazard. If you do have utility lines that go over the area you are planning on planting a tree, you must be very cautious in the location and tree species you select.
4. Determine your objective for the tree or shrub
Aside from their beauty, trees serve many functional purposes as well. Deciduous trees can provide shade during the sunny summer days, and allow sunlight to shine through during the fall and winter after their leaves fall. Hedges or groups of plants can create a barrier between your and your neighbors’ backyard, and shrubs can reduce the glare of cars or street lights. However, in order to effectively serve its purpose, the tree or shrub must be planted in the correct area of your yard. Some trees and shrubs provide these uses better than others, so having this objective in mind before picking the specific plant and where you are going to plant is important to get the most out of it.
If you are concerned with the location of where your tree is planted or if you are experiencing the effects of a poorly planted tree, schedule a no-cost consultation online or with one of our field representatives to have one of our local, professional arborists consult with you on the best way to proceed for your tree's and landscape's health.