Introduction:

Planting trees is an excellent way to enhance the beauty and provide shade to your property. However, it is essential to choose the right tree that does not interfere with underground pipes like water mains. Planting trees near water mains can disrupt the supply of water, and pose a significant threat to the structure of the pipeline. Therefore, in this article, we will discuss the trees that are safe to plant near water mains.

Factors to Consider:

Before selecting the trees, it is crucial to analyze the soil type, the distance from the water main, and the tree's root system. Trees with deep roots can burrow into the soil and reach the water main, damaging the pipes, and causing water leakages. In addition, trees with aggressive roots can cause soil subsidence, leading to structural damages. Therefore, it is vital to consider the following factors when selecting trees to plant near water mains.

Trees Safe to Plant:

1. Amur Maple - This tree is a small deciduous tree that grows up to 20 feet tall. The tree has a shallow root system that extends up to 4 feet deep, making it safe to plant near the water main.

2. River Birch - This tree has a non-invasive root system that can grow up to 3 feet deep. The tree can grow up to 70 feet tall and is an excellent tree to plant near water bodies.

3. Redbud - The Redbud is a small deciduous tree that grows up to 30 feet tall. The tree has a shallow root system that is non-invasive, making it safe to plant near water mains.

4. Serviceberry - The Serviceberry tree is a small deciduous tree that grows up to 25 feet tall. The tree has a shallow root system that makes it safe to plant near water mains.

5. Dogwood - The Dogwood is a small deciduous tree that grows up to 30 feet tall. The tree has a shallow root system that is non-invasive, making it safe to plant near water mains.

Trees to Avoid Planting:

1. Willow Trees - Willow trees have aggressive roots that can penetrate the soil up to 10 feet deep, making it unsafe to plant near water mains.

2. Poplar Trees - Poplar trees have shallow roots that spread widely, making it risky to plant near water mains.

3. Silver Maples - Silver maples have a shallow root system that is aggressive, making it unsafe to plant near water mains.

4. Black Gum Trees - The black gum tree has deep roots that can burrow into the soil and reach the water main, causing damage to the pipes.

5. Sycamore Trees - Sycamore trees have aggressive roots that can grow up to 100 feet long, making it unsafe to plant near water mains.

Conclusion:

It is essential to choose the right trees to plant near water mains to avoid any water supply disruptions and structural damages to the pipeline. Trees with invasive roots or deep roots should be avoided, and trees with shallow root systems should be preferred as they are less likely to cause any harm. Always consult an arborist before planting trees near any underground pipes to ensure the safety of the pipeline and prevent future damages. Choose trees wisely and enjoy their beauty and benefits for years to come.