Gardening Expert Reveals Five Trees He Would Never Plant in a Yard, Offering Alternatives Instead
In the pursuit of creating a beautiful and thriving garden, it's essential to consider the plants we choose carefully. Some trees, despite their allure, can pose challenges for residential yards due to invasiveness, toxicity, or maintenance issues. Here are some problematic species to steer clear of, along with some alternative options for a healthier and more manageable landscape.
Firstly, the Staghorn sumac (Rhus typhina) readily forms dense thickets by suckering and is invasive in some states, outcompeting native plants. The Mimosa tree (Albizia julibrissin) is another invasive species, particularly in the Southeastern U.S., spreading aggressively and dropping numerous seed pods.
The Weeping willow (Salix babylonica) is known for its messy growth habit and large root system that can damage nearby structures, making it problematic near homes. The Norway maple (Acer platanoides) is invasive with prolific self-seeding, surface roots that damage foundations, and it prevents understory plants from growing. Lastly, the Black walnut produces allelopathic chemicals that inhibit growth of many plants near it, limiting garden diversity.
Other problematic species include the tree-of-heaven, which is notoriously invasive and difficult to control, and the castor bean, which is highly toxic.
Instead, opting for less invasive, non-toxic alternatives can create safer, more manageable landscapes. The Serviceberry, for instance, is an often overlooked and understated tree, grown for its spring blossom and vibrant fall display. It is generally suitable for USDA hardiness zones 4-9 and can grow up to 30 feet tall.
For small gardens, the Eastern redbud and flowering cherry tree could be good alternatives. The Eastern redbud is illuminated by its pink blooms in early spring and grows to a maximum height of 30 feet. The flowering cherry tree, suitable for USDA zones 5-8, reaches a maximum of 8 to 50 feet tall.
When it comes to vegetable gardens, the presence of a black walnut tree may limit planting options due to its toxic juglone. In such cases, the Japanese tree lilac or native species could be considered as alternatives.
The cherry laurel, Prunus laurocerasus, is a large, fast-growing shrub or small tree that can reach 30 feet tall and wide. Although it is often valued for its ability to provide effective garden screening and privacy, it is considered an invasive in parts of the Pacific Northwest and toxic to pets and humans.
Lastly, the staghorn sumac, Rhus typhina, is a large shrub or small tree that can grow up to 25 feet tall and is prized for its attractive foliage and stunning fall color. However, if left unmanaged, its vigorous growth can outcompete and shade out other native plants, leading to their demise.
In conclusion, while these problematic species can add beauty to a garden, they can also bring unwanted complications. By choosing alternative, less invasive options, you can enjoy a healthier, more diverse, and easier-to-maintain garden.
Choosing home-and-garden alternatives to problematic species like the Staghorn sumac, Weeping willow, and Mimosa tree can result in a lifestyle that includes a healthier and more manageable landscape. For instance, the Serviceberry tree, Eastern redbud, and flowering cherry tree are less invasive options that offer vibrant spring blooms and reach manageable heights. Additionally, careful consideration of vegetable garden options is necessary when a black walnut tree's toxicity presents a challenge, as alternatives like the Japanese tree lilac or native species may provide suitable solutions.
