What Are Good Trees to Plant Near Buildings?

Planting trees near buildings can provide numerous benefits such as natural cooling, improved air quality, and aesthetic value. However, choosing the right tree species is vital to prevent damage to buildings and infrastructure. Here are some of the best trees to consider for planting near buildings:

1. Red Maple

Red maple (Acer rubrum) is a great option for planting near buildings due to its moderate growth rate and shallow root system. The roots of the red maple seldom grow deeper than 15 inches, making it less likely to cause damage to building foundations. Red maple is a deciduous tree that grows up to 50 feet tall, producing vibrantly colored leaves in the fall. It thrives in moist soils but can also tolerate drought conditions.

2. Eastern Redbud

The eastern redbud (Cercis canadensis) is a small deciduous tree that can grow up to 30 feet tall. It is an excellent ornamental tree that produces purple-pink flowers in early spring before the leaves appear. Its root system is not aggressive, making it a safe option for planting near buildings. Eastern redbuds grow best in full sun or partial shade and are tolerant of a wide range of soil types.

3. American Hornbeam

The American hornbeam (Carpinus caroliniana) is a slow-growing deciduous tree that can reach up to 30 feet in height. Its roots do not grow aggressively, making it an ideal option for planting near buildings. The American hornbeam produces green leaves in the spring and produces attractive winged fruits in the fall. This tree thrives in partial to full shade and prefers moist, well-drained soils.

4. Serviceberry

The serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.) is a small deciduous tree that can grow up to 20 feet tall. Its roots are shallow and not aggressive, making it a safe option for planting near buildings. The tree produces white flowers in early spring and edible berries in the summer. Serviceberries grow best in full sun to partial shade and prefer moist, well-drained soils.

5. Dogwood

The dogwood (Cornus florida) is a small deciduous tree that can grow up to 30 feet tall. Its shallow root system makes it a safe option for planting near buildings. The tree produces showy flowers in varying shades of pink, white, or red in the spring and attractive foliage in the fall. Dogwoods thrive in moist, well-drained soils and prefer partial shade.

In conclusion, choosing the right tree species when planting near buildings is crucial to prevent damage to infrastructure. The red maple, eastern redbud, American hornbeam, serviceberry, and dogwood are all great options to consider since they have a shallow root system and are not aggressive. When adding trees to your landscape, it is always best to consult with a professional to determine the ideal species and planting location.