How Close to House Can You Plant a Tree?

Planting trees is an excellent way to add beauty and value to your home. However, you need to be careful about where you plant them, especially if you are planting them near your house. Trees can cause a lot of damage if they are planted too close to a house or building. In this article, we will explore how close to house you can plant a tree and what factors you need to consider before planting it.

Factors to Consider Before Planting a Tree

Before planting a tree near your house, there are several factors you need to consider. Firstly, you need to consider the size of the tree once it has fully grown. Trees can grow to be very large, and some trees can reach heights of 80 feet or more. You should consider the species of tree you want to plant and how large it will grow.

The second factor to consider is the distance between the tree and your house. Trees that are too close to a house can cause a lot of problems. The roots of the trees can grow under the house and cause foundation issues. The branches of the tree can also damage the roof of the house if they are allowed to grow too close to it.

The third factor to consider is the amount of sunlight your house gets. Trees can provide much-needed shade for your house during the summer months. However, planting a tree in a spot that blocks too much sunlight can have a negative impact on the energy efficiency of your home.

How Close Should You Plant a Tree to Your House?

The general rule of thumb is to plant a tree at least 20 feet away from your house. However, this may not always be possible, depending on the size of your yard and the species of tree you want to plant. If you have a smaller yard, you may need to plant the tree closer to your house than 20 feet.

If you need to plant a tree closer to your house, one option is to plant a smaller species of tree. Smaller trees will not grow as large, and their roots will not cause as much damage to your house. You can also plant the tree on the side of your house that gets the least amount of sunlight, so it does not block too much sunlight from entering your home.

Which Trees Should You Avoid Planting Near Your House?

Some species of trees are more problematic than others when it comes to planting them near a house. Trees with aggressive root systems, such as willow trees, should be avoided. Other types of trees, such as cottonwood trees, can also cause a lot of problems.

You should also avoid planting trees that are prone to diseases or pests. Trees that are unhealthy can cause a lot of problems for your house and your yard. Some trees, such as elm trees, are prone to diseases that can spread to other trees in your yard.

Conclusion

Planting trees can add a lot of value to your home, but you need to be careful about where you plant them. Trees that are planted too close to a house can cause a lot of problems, including foundation issues and roof damage. It is important to consider the size of the tree, the distance from your house, and the amount of sunlight your house gets when deciding where to plant a tree. By taking these factors into consideration, you can ensure that your tree adds value to your home without causing any damage.