Planting trees in your yard can enhance your outdoor space, provide shade, and increase property value. But not all trees are equal when it comes to residential settings.
Choosing the wrong type can lead to long-term issues, from invasive roots to high maintenance costs. Keep reading as we take a closer look at which trees you should avoid growing in your yard.
Invasive Species: The Downside of Certain Trees
Some trees are notorious for their invasive nature, overtaking your yard and possibly spreading beyond it. One example is the Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima). While it grows quickly and might seem appealing, this species aggressively spreads through seeds and root suckers, crowding out native plants.
Another offender is the Mimosa Tree (Albizia julibrissin), which produces a ton of seeds and can colonize large areas, making it difficult to control. If preserving ecosystem balance and minimizing maintenance is your goal, steer clear of these invasive species.
Trees With Aggressive Roots: A Threat to Your Property
Some trees come with roots that can wreak havoc on your property. The Silver Maple (Acer saccharinum), for instance, is notorious for its fast-growing, shallow roots. These roots can crack concrete sidewalks, invade plumbing systems, and outcompete nearby plants for water and nutrients.
Similarly, the White Poplar (Populus alba) has highly aggressive roots that spread widely and often damage driveways and foundations. If you’re considering tree-related changes in your yard, read this quick overview of tree transplanting to learn safer options and techniques.
High-Maintenance Trees: Avoid Ongoing Hassles
Some trees might seem appealing at first due to their appearance but end up being high-maintenance headaches. The Sweet Gum Tree (Liquidambar styraciflua), for example, produces spiked seed balls that litter yards and are a hassle to clean up.
Additionally, the Bradford Pear (Pyrus calleryana), though popular for its showy white flowers, has a weak branch structure that makes it prone to splitting in storms, leaving you with a mess to manage. Avoid planting these species if you want to skip unnecessary hassles and extra costs.
Trees Not Suited to Your Climate: Choose Native Species
Planting a tree that’s not suited to your climate can lead to poor health and even death for the tree itself. For instance, palm trees are frequently planted in temperate climates where they struggle to survive frost.
Similarly, the Loblolly Pine (Pinus taeda), a fast-growing tree native to the southeastern US, may not thrive in cold or arid climates. Choosing native or climate-appropriate species ensures the tree will flourish and minimizes the need for extra care, watering, or pest control.
Picking the right tree for your yard doesn’t have to be overwhelming, but you must do your due diligence and avoid certain selections. Whether it’s avoiding invasive species, steering clear of aggressive root systems, or selecting trees suited to your climate, researching beforehand can save you from costly mistakes.
