What Are the Worst Trees to Plant?

Introduction

Planting trees is a great way to beautify your indoor and outdoor living spaces. However, it is essential to choose the right trees to grow. Some trees can cause problems that make them not worth the hassle. In this article, we'll discuss the worst trees to plant and why they are so problematic.

1. Bradford Pear Trees

Bradford Pear is a popular ornamental tree that is planted in many landscapes for its beautiful flowers and fast growth rate. However, it is among the worst trees to plant, as it can easily break apart due to weak crotches. Bradford Pear trees have an acute v-shape, making them incredibly prone to storm damage. Additionally, they can also form a thorny thicket of small, troublesome branches that are challenging to get rid of.

2. Silver Maple Trees

Silver maple trees have a beautiful shape and grow very quickly. They are a popular choice for homeowners and are often planted as shade trees. However, they are among the worst trees to plant, as they have a shallow root system, which makes them prone to damage during harsh weather conditions. They also drop a significant amount of debris, which can be annoying to clean up.

3. Weeping Willow Trees

Weeping Willow trees are beautiful with their soft, drooping branches and attractive foliage. They are often planted near water bodies, as they love water. However, they are among the worst trees to plant, as they have a very aggressive root system, which can harm nearby structures like sewer lines or water pipes. They also tend to drop a lot of litter that can create a mess.

4. Mimosa Trees

Mimosa trees are admired for their beautiful, pink flowers and showy foliage. They can grow very fast, and their branches spread outwards, providing excellent shade. However, they are among the worst trees to plant because they are short-lived and can grow into a nuisance. They drop a large amount of leaflets and twigs, making the landscape difficult to maintain.

5. Leyland Cypress Trees

Leyland cypress trees are popular for their fast growth rate and ability to provide privacy to homeowners. They have beautiful, dense foliage, and their height can match that of a two-story building. However, they are among the worst trees to plant because they are susceptible to many diseases, and their roots can cause damage to nearby structures. In addition, they also have an unyielding odor, which can make it unpleasant to be near them.

6. Cottonwood Trees

Cottonwood trees have an attractive silver-green foliage and can grow quite tall. They are prevalent in many areas and are often planted as landscape trees. However, they are among the worst trees to plant because they have a very aggressive root system that can cause damage to nearby structures like foundations, sidewalks, and driveways. Additionally, their cottony seeds can create a considerable mess and can trigger allergies in some people.

Conclusion

Choosing the right trees to plant can have a significant impact on your landscape's overall beauty and health. Trees are investments that add value to your property, but not all trees are created equal. Some can cause more problems than they are worth. As such, it is essential to research your preferred trees' growth habits and potential problems before making your final choice. Remember, it's always better to invest in trees that will bring joy and not headaches.