Including trees and shrubs in your yard is a great way to boost your home’s curb appeal and make its exterior more inviting. Unfortunately, planting some trees too close to your home can lead to unwanted complications, so it is important to know what trees should not be planted close to a house.
As a professional tree service in Arkadelphia, AR, we at Urban Jacks Tree Service understand the dangers that some trees pose due to their proximity to buildings. In our post below, we explain which tree and shrub species you should and shouldn’t have around your house.
Avoid Planting These Trees Near Your Home To Prevent Problems
What trees should not be planted close to a house? If planting new trees, avoid putting these species near your home.
Oaks
Oak trees are majestic specimens that can grow to 100 feet tall. Yet, they have shallow, laterally growing roots that can cause foundation damage. Their height can also make them a target for lightning strikes.
Poplar Trees
Poplars are an aggressive species with fast-growing, shallow root systems. They can quickly infiltrate foundations and underground sewer lines, resulting in substantial property damage and costly plumbing repairs.
Arborvitae
Arborvitae is a fast-growing tree that can quickly sprout to heights exceeding 40 feet. Due to their need for regular trimming to maintain their shape, these trees are more suitable for areas away from houses.
Ash Trees
Ash trees are beautiful, but their roots absorb a lot of water from soil. As a result, they can lead to severe subsidence, a condition in which the soil under a building shifts and creates foundational unbalance.
The Benefits of Having Trees and Shrubs in Your Yard
Many people enjoy the look of trees around their houses, and for good reason. Strategically planting trees and bushes around your home can add character to the building while also hiding unsightly features like concrete blocks and plain walls. The greenery can also provide cover for the property’s foundation and add pops of color to the landscape.
Common Problems With Planting Trees Too Close to Houses
Now that you know the answer to, “What trees should not be planted close to a house?”, here are some problems that can develop from planting trees too close to your home:
- Messy foliage that sheds into gutters and outdoor air conditioner units, causing clogs
- Weak wood falling from a large canopy onto the house can cause roof damage
- Moisture that trees and shrubs trap when they’re too close to a house can lead to siding damage and rot
- Invasive roots can crack or lift a foundation, sidewalk, patio, and other concrete structures
Tree and Shrubbery Options To Consider for Areas Close to Your Home
If you want to plant trees near your house, consider small varieties like the Japanese maple, saucer magnolia, or redbud. Despite their small nature, it’s best to plant these trees at least 8 feet from your house.
For bushes, consider planting low-lying shrubs like azalea, juniper, and boxwood. These species are safest 2 to 5 feet away from a building’s foundation.
Turn to Arkadelphia‘s Tree Care Professionals for More Help
Understanding what trees should not be planted close to a house will help preserve the beauty and integrity of your landscape and home. Urban Jacks Tree Service is a top-rated tree care provider serving Arkadelphia, AR. Our ISA-Certified Arborists and crew provide comprehensive services to ensure tree health and property safety.
Count on us to provide standing dead tree removal, trimming, pruning, and other quality services to prevent hazards and structural complications for your home. Our attention to detail creates stellar results—call (501) 494-1363 for a free estimate.
