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Thursday - June 18, 2015

From: Allen, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Planting, Trees
Title: Spacing of Trees near a House Foundation
Answered by: Anne Van Nest

QUESTION:

Can you recommend non-invasive shade tree that can be planted 6 to 7 feet from foundation. We are buying a new home in zone 8a and choices that are given are: Live Oak, Lacebark Elm, Cedar Elm, and Bald Cypress. We can pay extra and also have Magnolia or any other shade tree that is 4 inch caliper. What would you recommend?

ANSWER:

Ray Rothenberger of the Department of Horticulture, University of Missouri has an article online about the spacing of landscape plants and says the following: Trees, especially large shade trees, should be placed well away from the home to avoid later maintenance problems. Strong-wooded shade trees such as oaks should be planted no closer than 20 feet from the house, but soft wooded trees such as soft maple should be planted at an even greater distance. Large shade trees should be planted about 50 feet from each other. Trees of medium size such as red maple or river birch should be spaced about 35 feet apart. Small trees such as dogwood, redbud, hawthorn or crab may be planted 15 to 20 feet apart and no closer than 8 feet from the house when used as an accent or corner planting.

All of the trees that you suggest are appropriate for zone 8a but take a look at the ultimate size and spread to make sure they have enough room where you are wanting to put them.

From the Image Gallery

Coastal live oak
Quercus virginiana

1. Topic: Planting, Trees

The central theme revolves around selecting and planting trees, specifically focusing on their proximity to a house foundation. This is crucial for avoiding potential issues and ensuring the long-term health of both the trees and the structure.

2. Location: Allen, TX (Region: Southwest, Zone 8a)

The article addresses a specific location—Allen, TX, which falls within Zone 8a. Understanding the climate and plant hardiness zone is fundamental for recommending suitable tree species.

3. Question: Spacing of Trees near a House Foundation

The reader from Allen, TX, is seeking advice on non-invasive shade trees that can be planted 6 to 7 feet from the foundation of their new home. The tree options presented include Live Oak, Lacebark Elm, Cedar Elm, and Bald Cypress. Additional options like Magnolia are also considered.

4. Answer: Tree Spacing Recommendations

The response cites Ray Rothenberger of the Department of Horticulture, University of Missouri, who emphasizes the importance of proper spacing. Large shade trees, such as oaks, should be planted no closer than 20 feet from the house. The recommended spacing varies for different tree sizes, with specifics for strong-wooded and soft-wooded trees.

5. Tree Options and Considerations

The suggested tree options (Live Oak, Lacebark Elm, Cedar Elm, Bald Cypress, and Magnolia) are suitable for Zone 8a. However, the article advises considering the ultimate size and spread of the chosen trees to ensure they have enough room for healthy growth.

6. Image Gallery

The article includes images of specific trees mentioned, such as Coastal Live Oak, Cedar Elm, and Bald Cypress. Visual references can aid readers in identifying these trees and envisioning their potential in landscaping.

7. Related Questions

The article provides links to related questions, offering additional information on topics like tree replacement, unusual leaf behavior, and specific tree species like Quercus virginiana.

In conclusion, the information provided in the article is comprehensive, offering practical advice based on horticultural expertise and considerations for the specific region and circ*mstances.