How Close Can You Plant a Tree to a Fence?

Planting a tree in your landscape is a great way to enhance the beauty, provide shade and improve the quality of air around you. However, sometimes, yard space can be limited or you have a fence, and you may wonder how close you can plant a tree to a fence. There are a few things you need to consider before planting a tree near a fence.

The Type of Tree Determines Planting Distance

The first factor you need to consider is the type of tree you want to plant. Some trees grow tall and may have an extended canopy, while others grow wide and have a dense root system. These varying growth patterns make some trees unsuitable for planting close to a fence.

The rule of thumb is to plant trees with extensive root systems and wide crowns far away from the fence. Large trees such as oak or poplar trees require a distance of at least 15 to 20 feet from any fence.

On the other hand, small trees that grow slowly and have an upright pyramidal shape, like a Japanese maple, can be planted much closer to a fence. These types of trees are considered good candidates because they grow well in compact spaces.

Consider Fencing Materials

It is essential to consider the type of material used in fencing when planting a tree near it. Fencing materials such as chain link and picket fences may not be affected by a tree's roots, but they may be affected by a tree's crown.

If you are planting trees that have a broad crown, like a Bradford Pear tree, the limbs may eventually grow across the fence and could cause damage to the fence over time. You can avoid this problem by ensuring that the branches are regularly pruned and trimmed away from the fence to prevent damage.

Protecting the Tree and Fence

When planting trees close to a fence, you need to protect both the fence and the tree from potential damage. If the tree roots start to grow toward the fence, they can cause damage or displace the fence.

To prevent tree roots from growing toward the fence, you can create a physical barrier between the tree roots and the fence by installing a vertical barrier. This barrier could be a plastic screen, a piece of plywood, or a steel sheet. The barrier should be buried at least three feet deep and extend above the ground level to ensure that the tree roots do not grow under it.

The tree trunk could also be damaged by the fence. The trunk may rub against the fence, causing it to become damaged or infected. To prevent this, you can install a fence sleeve around the tree to create a buffer between the tree and the fence.

Conclusion

Planting trees near a fence can add a beautiful feature to your landscape. But planting a tree too close to a fence can lead to potential damage. Selecting the right tree that suits your environment, considering fencing materials and providing adequate protection can ensure a healthy growing environment for the tree while preserving your fence.

Remember, consulting with a professional landscaper or arborist can help you determine how close you can plant a tree to your fence without damaging either one.