The Right Tree for Your Home: What Makes a Good Choice?

When selecting a tree, you’ll want to focus on a few key characteristics:

• Root System: Avoid trees with invasive root systems that can break through your foundation, sidewalks, or plumbing.
• Size and Shape: Make sure the tree will fit in the space you have in mind, and be careful about species that grow too tall or wide.
• Maintenance Needs: Some trees require regular pruning or cleaning up fallen leaves, branches, and fruit. Consider how much time you’re willing to invest.
• Hardiness: In Sarasota, FL, we experience hot, humid summers and mild winters. You’ll need a tree that thrives in this kind of climate.

Let’s talk about the trees that should and shouldn’t be cut.

Best Trees to Plant Near Your House

1. Southern Live Oak (Quercus virginiana)

The Southern Live Oak is a true Southern classic. This large, majestic tree provides excellent shade and has no overly aggressive root system. Its deep taproots grow straight down, reducing the chance of damaging your foundation or plumbing. These trees also have a long lifespan, and their wide canopy gives your home natural protection from the sun. The best part? They can handle salt air, making them perfect for the coastal environment around Sarasota.

Pros:

• Beautiful, sturdy shade tree.
• Minimal root issues.
• Long lifespan and low maintenance.

2. Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica)

If you’re looking for something smaller, the Crape Myrtle is an ideal choice. With stunning summer blooms and attractive bark, this tree adds a pop of color without overwhelming your space. It won’t grow too tall, making it perfect for planting closer to the house. Crape Myrtles also handle the heat and humidity like a champ and are generally free from serious pests or diseases.

Pros:

• Vibrant flowers in summer.
• Tolerant of heat and drought.
• Low-maintenance, compact size.

3. Florida Maple (Acer floridanum)

For a tree with a bit of fall color, the Florida Maple is a great option. This native tree is well-suited to the Florida climate, thriving in sun and partial shade. It has a moderate growth rate, so you won’t have to worry about it becoming too large too quickly. Its root system is not invasive, meaning no cracked foundations or sidewalks.

Pros:

• Offers brilliant fall color.
• Grows to a manageable size.
• Non-invasive roots.

4. Palms (Various species)

If you’re in the Sarasota area, palms are a no-brainer. They’re quintessentially Florida, low-maintenance, and provide a tropical aesthetic that complements many home designs. Palms like the Sabal Palm or the Windmill Palm are great choices because their roots grow deep, and their fronds can be easily trimmed.

Pros:

• Iconic Florida aesthetic.
• Low-maintenance.
• Excellent for hot, sunny environments.

Worst Trees to Plant Near Your House

1. Ficus (Ficus benjamina)

While the Ficus tree is widely famous for its glossy, green leaves and ease of growth, it’s not the best option near your home. The root system is aggressive and can cause significant damage to foundations, sidewalks, and underground pipes. The tree grows quickly and can become top-heavy, making it prone to falling during storms—a common issue in Florida.

Cons:

• Invasive root system.
• Prone to falling in storms.
• It requires a lot of space to grow properly.

2. Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum)

While beautiful in the right spot, the Bald Cypress can be a nightmare if planted too close to a house. This tree’s roots are not only invasive but can also grow very wide and deep. Planting too near your home’s foundation can lead to costly repairs and constant root management. The tree drops needles year-round, making yard maintenance a continuous battle.

Cons:

• It is a very invasive root system.
• A large, messy tree that requires a lot of space.
• Constant needle drop.

3. Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus spp.)

The Eucalyptus tree, while exotic and fast-growing, can create serious problems. In addition to its expansive root system that could crack sidewalks and foundations, the tree’s branches are brittle. It can lose large limbs or even topple in high winds, such as during hurricanes or tropical storms. The eucalyptus also releases a lot of oil from its leaves, which can create a fire hazard.

Cons:

• Extremely brittle wood.
• Invasive root system.
• It can become a fire hazard.

4. Black Walnut (Juglans nigra)

While the Black Walnut tree is a magnificent specimen, it is not a friend of your home. This tree’s roots release a chemical called juglone, which can be toxic to other plants and disrupt nearby gardens. It also has a robust and aggressive root system that can damage underground pipes and foundation walls. Due to its size and spread, it should never be planted too close to structures.

Cons:

• Toxic roots that harm nearby plants.
• Aggressive root growth.
• Requires ample space.