How Far to Plant Trees from Sidewalks

Planting trees along sidewalks can add beauty and shade to our streets, but it is important to plant them at the appropriate distance from the pavement to ensure their growth does not cause damage. Here are some factors to consider when determining how far to plant trees from sidewalks.

Tree Species

The type of tree you choose to plant can have a big impact on how far it should be from the sidewalk. Some trees have shallow root systems that can lift pavement and cause damage, while others have deeper roots that are less likely to cause problems. For example, trees such as the Colorado blue spruce, Ohio buckeye, and American elm have shallow roots and should be planted at least 10 feet from the sidewalk to avoid damage, while trees such as the London plane tree and Japanese zelkova have deeper roots and can be planted closer to the sidewalk, about 5 feet away.

Sidewalk Width

The width of the sidewalk is another important factor to consider when deciding how far to plant trees. If the sidewalk is narrow, with little space for the tree's roots to grow, it is best to plant the tree farther away to prevent root damage. A wider sidewalk will allow for more root space, so the tree can be planted closer to the pavement. As a general rule, it is recommended to plant trees at least 2 feet away from the edge of the sidewalk for every 1 inch of trunk diameter.

Mature Tree Size

It is important to consider the mature size of the tree when determining how far to plant it from the sidewalk. A tree that will grow to be very large should be planted farther away from the sidewalk to prevent its branches from hanging over the pavement or its roots from causing damage. Small trees can be planted closer to the sidewalk, as they will not grow as large and will not pose the same risks.

Maintenance

Another factor to consider when planting trees along sidewalks is maintenance. Trees that are too close to the pavement may require more frequent pruning to keep them from growing into the sidewalk or damaging it with their roots. Be sure to choose a tree species that fits your maintenance needs and schedule, and plan for its growth accordingly.

Conclusion

Planting trees along sidewalks can be a great way to beautify our streets and provide shade, but it is important to ensure they are planted at the appropriate distance to prevent damage to the pavement and surrounding areas. Consider the tree species, sidewalk width, mature tree size, and maintenance needs when determining how far to plant trees from sidewalks.