Plant These 7 Sidewalk-Friendly Trees Outside Your Home Now
The hot season is here, and with the rising temperatures, we all seek the comfort of shade. Planting trees inside and outside our homes is a great way to provide shade for ourselves and others. However, many homeowners worry about the potential damage to their home’s infrastructure caused by tree roots lifting the ground or sidewalk.
Fortunately, there are several tree species that won’t damage the ground or walls of your home. These trees are not only functional but also add a touch of elegance and beauty to your property. Here are some of the top trees that you can plant outside your home without causing damage to your sidewalk:
- Ash tree
- Japanese maple
- Crape myrtle
- Poplar
- Coral tree
- Oak-leaf tree
These trees offer ample foliage, wide canopies, and striking colors, providing excellent shade and a beautiful view. They grow slowly, so they pose no threat to sidewalks or the ground in general. Homeowners can now plant trees outside their homes without worrying about damage to their infrastructure.
Key Takeaways
- Homeowners can plant trees outside their homes without worrying about damage to their infrastructure.
- The top trees that won’t damage your sidewalk include ash, Japanese maple, crape myrtle, poplar, coral, and oak-leaf trees.
- These trees offer ample foliage, wide canopies, and striking colors, providing excellent shade and a beautiful view.
Benefits of Tree Planting Near Sidewalks
Planting trees near sidewalks offers several benefits to both the environment and the community. Here are some of the benefits of planting trees near sidewalks:
- Shade: Trees provide shade, which can help reduce the temperature in urban areas, especially during hot summer days. This can help reduce the need for air conditioning, which in turn can reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
- Air Quality: Trees help improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and other pollutants. They also release oxygen into the air, which is essential for human and animal life.
- Water Management: Trees help manage water by absorbing rainwater and reducing runoff. This can help prevent flooding and erosion, which can damage infrastructure and harm the environment.
- Aesthetics: Trees add beauty and value to the community by enhancing the landscape and providing a natural habitat for birds and other wildlife.
- Economic Benefits: Trees can increase property values and attract businesses and tourists to the area. They can also reduce the cost of energy and maintenance by providing shade and reducing the need for watering and mowing.
Overall, planting trees near sidewalks is a simple and effective way to improve the environment and enhance the quality of life in the community. It’s a win-win situation for everyone.
Understanding Root Structures
When it comes to planting trees, it’s important to understand the root structures of the trees to ensure that they won’t damage your sidewalks or home’s infrastructure. The roots of some trees can be invasive and grow deep into the ground, causing damage to sidewalks, driveways, and even the foundation of your home.
However, there are certain trees that have non-invasive root systems, making them perfect for planting outside your home. These trees have roots that grow mostly horizontally, rather than vertically, which means they won’t lift the ground or cause any structural damage.
It’s important to note that even non-invasive trees can cause damage if they are planted too close to your home or sidewalks. As a general rule, trees should be planted at least 10 feet away from any structures to prevent any potential damage.
If you’re unsure about which trees are safe to plant outside your home, consult with a professional arborist or landscaper. They can provide expert advice on which trees will work best for your specific situation and ensure that they are planted in the right location.
By understanding the root structures of trees and planting non-invasive species, you can enjoy the benefits of shade and beauty without worrying about any potential damage to your home’s infrastructure.
Criteria for Selecting Sidewalk-Friendly Trees
When selecting trees to plant outside your home, it is essential to consider the potential damage they may cause to the ground, sidewalks, and other structures. Choosing the right trees will not only provide shade and beauty but also prevent costly repairs in the future.
The following are some criteria to consider when selecting sidewalk-friendly trees:
- Size: Choose trees that will not grow too large, and their root system will not be too extensive. Small to medium-sized trees are generally a safe choice for planting near sidewalks.
- Root System: Look for trees with a non-invasive root system that will not lift the ground or damage sidewalks. Deep-rooted trees are ideal as they are less likely to cause damage.
- Growth Rate: Select trees with a slow to moderate growth rate. Trees that grow too fast are more likely to cause damage to the surrounding structures.
- Soil Type: Consider the type of soil in the area where you plan to plant the tree. Some trees thrive in certain soil types, while others may struggle or even die.
- Climate: Choose trees that are well-suited to the local climate. Trees that are not adapted to the climate may struggle to grow, or they may be more susceptible to disease and pests.
By considering these criteria, you can select trees that will provide shade and beauty without causing damage to the ground or surrounding structures.
Top Trees That Won’t Damage Your Sidewalk
The hot season is here, and we’re all looking for ways to stay cool. One of the best ways to do this is by planting trees around your home. Trees not only provide shade but also add a beautiful and elegant look to your home. However, many homeowners worry that trees will lift the ground or sidewalk and damage their home’s infrastructure. Luckily, there are several trees you can plant that won’t damage the ground or walls. Here are some of the best options:
Small Tree Varieties
Japanese Maple is a small shrub that doesn’t grow too large. It is perfect if you also want to add a decorative touch to your home with its striking red-violet leaves in spring. Japanese maples are delicate and offer excellent shade on hot days without damaging your home’s structures.
Coral Tree is not very tall, reaching a maximum height of 12 meters. It provides excellent shade and spectacular views with its scarlet flowers in clusters. According to Zulu tradition, these trees were planted on the graves of Zulu chiefs.
Medium Tree Varieties
Crape Myrtle trees are very attractive with wide, flat canopies, smooth bark, and oval leaves, creating a beautiful view, especially when in bloom. Their flowers grow in lilac or pink clusters, providing shade and a burst of color to your home.
Ash Tree is a medium-sized tree with ample foliage, offering excellent shade on hot days without damaging your home’s structures.
Large Tree Varieties
Poplar trees are majestic species with tall, straight trunks and whitish bark. They grow slowly, so they pose no threat to sidewalks or the ground in general.
Oak-Leaf Tree also grows slowly but is very robust. Its wide canopy provides excellent shade and a beautiful view.
By planting these trees, you can enjoy the shade and beauty they provide without worrying about damage to your home’s infrastructure.
Planting Techniques to Minimize Sidewalk Damage
When planting trees outside your home, it’s essential to consider the impact they may have on the surrounding structures, including sidewalks. While some trees can cause damage by lifting or cracking the pavement, others are less likely to do so. Here are some planting techniques to minimize sidewalk damage:
Choose the Right Tree
Selecting the right tree species is crucial to prevent damage to sidewalks. Small trees are best suited for planting in narrow treelawns because their roots do not grow large and can’t lift the pavement. On the other hand, large-maturing trees like oaks should be planted in more extensive spaces greater than eight feet wide because their roots can raise the sidewalk and pavement if planted too close. 1
Plant Trees at the Right Distance
Planting trees at the right distance from sidewalks is also essential to prevent damage. Trees reaching up to 30-50 feet high should be planted a minimum of 5-6 feet from sidewalks. Trees reaching up to 50 feet high should be planted a minimum of 8 feet from sidewalks. 2
Water Trees Appropriately
Proper watering is crucial to ensure the healthy growth of trees and prevent damage to sidewalks. Overwatering can cause the soil to become too soft, leading to instability and pavement damage. On the other hand, under-watering can cause the roots to grow deeper and wider in search of water, causing them to crack the pavement. It’s essential to water trees appropriately to maintain the right balance. 3
By following these planting techniques, you can minimize sidewalk damage and enjoy the benefits of trees outside your home.
Footnotes
Maintenance Tips for Healthy Trees and Sidewalks
Planting trees outside your home can be a great way to provide shade and add to the beauty of your property. However, it’s important to take care of your trees and sidewalks to ensure they remain healthy and don’t cause damage to each other. Here are some maintenance tips to keep in mind:
Proper Tree Placement
When planting trees, it’s important to consider the location carefully. Make sure you choose a species that won’t grow too large and cause damage to sidewalks or other structures. Additionally, be sure to plant the tree far enough away from the sidewalk to allow for adequate root growth without lifting the pavement.
Regular Pruning
Regular pruning is essential to maintain the health and shape of your trees. Pruning can help prevent branches from growing too close to sidewalks or other structures, and can also help promote healthy growth. Be sure to hire a professional arborist to handle pruning, as improper techniques can cause damage to the tree.
Watering
Proper watering is essential to keep trees healthy and prevent damage to sidewalks. Be sure to water trees deeply and infrequently, rather than shallowly and frequently. This will encourage deeper root growth and reduce the risk of pavement lifting.
Soil Maintenance
Healthy soil is essential for healthy trees. Be sure to maintain proper soil pH and nutrient levels to promote healthy growth. Additionally, consider using mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture and prevent soil compaction.
By following these maintenance tips, you can enjoy the benefits of beautiful trees without worrying about damage to your sidewalks or other structures. Remember to hire a professional arborist for pruning and other tree care needs, and to choose species that are appropriate for your location.
Legal Considerations and Permissions
Before planting trees outside your home, it’s essential to understand the legal considerations and permissions. While planting trees may seem like a simple task, it can lead to legal disputes with your neighbors if not done correctly.
First and foremost, it’s crucial to know the local laws and regulations regarding planting trees. Some cities and states have specific rules on the types of trees you can plant and where you can plant them. For instance, some areas may have restrictions on planting trees near power lines or within a certain distance from the sidewalk.
Additionally, if you’re planting trees on the property line, you must obtain your neighbor’s permission. According to Rocket Homes, if a tree sits on the property line, it’s considered common property, and both you and your neighbor are owners. Therefore, you cannot legally plant a tree on the property line without permission from your neighbor.
It’s also essential to consider any potential damage the trees may cause to your home’s infrastructure. Some trees have aggressive roots that can cause damage to sidewalks, driveways, and even the foundation of your home. However, the trees listed in this article are safe to plant outside your home and won’t cause any damage to your home’s infrastructure.
By following the local laws and regulations and obtaining your neighbor’s permission, you can avoid any legal disputes and enjoy the benefits of planting trees outside your home.
Additional Resources for Homeowners
If you’re looking for more information on planting trees that won’t damage your sidewalk or home, there are plenty of resources available to help. Here are a few recommendations:
- The Arbor Day Foundation: The Arbor Day Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to planting trees and promoting their benefits. They offer a variety of resources for homeowners, including a tree care guide, a tree identification tool, and advice on selecting the right tree for your location. Check out their website at arborday.org.
- Your local nursery or garden center: Your local nursery or garden center can be a valuable resource when it comes to selecting and planting trees. They can help you choose the right tree for your location, offer advice on planting and care, and provide information on local regulations and permits. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek their expertise.
- Your local extension office: Your local extension office is a great source of information on gardening and landscaping. They can provide advice on soil testing, pest control, and other issues related to planting trees. Find your local extension office at extension.org.
Remember, planting trees is a long-term investment in your property and the environment. Take the time to research your options and choose the right tree for your location and needs. With the right care, your trees can provide shade, beauty, and benefits for generations to come.
