Help choosing a tree

Discussion in 'Trees' started by Clueless76, May 19, 2019.

  1. Clueless76

    Clueless76 Gardener

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    I have an area next to the house 2m long 1m wide, that is full sun most of the day, looking for a very small tree that will have a canopy to create some shade, it also is very close to where private drainage pipes run

    Any suggestions?
     
  2. Marley Farley

    Marley Farley Affable Admin! Staff Member

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    How close to the house and drainage pipes is this small area.?
     
  3. Sheal

    Sheal Total Gardener

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    If the area is against the house wall then I would say a tree isn't an option. The roots will extend to the house footings with possible damage to those once established. They would also be difficult to remove. Even a shrub in that area could create the same problems. I wouldn't plant any tree close to drainage pipes, I've experienced the damage done in the past by a previous occupiers planting.
     
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    • CarolineL

      CarolineL Total Gardener

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      If you want a small tree, I'd suggest cover the area with weed membrane and get some very large containers for the shrubs or trees to stand on it. That way the pipes and foundations are safe
       
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      • Mike Allen

        Mike Allen Total Gardener

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        I purchased a Gleditsia sunburst, winter befor last. Planted it in a round container +- 30" across and some 24" deep. It took OK and sprouted. Even though in a young stage, it was very attractive. Now this year it is once again breaking out and adds attraction to the garden. Around the base, I have an assortment of hardy geraniums etc.
         
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        • wiseowl

          wiseowl FRIENDLY ADMIN Staff Member

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          I would go for a Rowan(Mountain Ash) lovely shape and loaded with berries for the birds:smile:
           
        • Verdun

          Verdun Passionate gardener

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          Agree totally with Sheal, I wouldn’t plant a tree there Clueless76.....”next to the house “ and “close to drainage pipes” ???:sad:
          CarolineL’s suggestion for containers is a sensible one or why not consider perennials? Tall persicarias, sanguisorbas, veronicastrums, salvias, miscanthus or calamagrostis grasses, thalictrums etc.???:)
           
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          • Clueless76

            Clueless76 Gardener

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            image.jpg
            Here’s a pic, so corner of house and I’ve scraped the slate to where the drainage pipe runs to, there was a 6ft Californian lilac here when we moved in leaning up against a shed, and without the shed, had to go and this caused no problem to any drainage, ideally I’m looking for shade for the dogs to lay under as this part of the garden has sun 90% of the day
             
          • Sheal

            Sheal Total Gardener

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            Sorry Clueless76, I still think a tree in that situation would be risky but you would probably get away with a shrub.
             
          • Clueless76

            Clueless76 Gardener

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            All taken on board, thank you all!

            I thought I was p**sing in the wind but if a solution was out there someone on here would of had it!

            Maybe a ghastly sunshade is my next option
             
          • Verdun

            Verdun Passionate gardener

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            A tall but non aggressive grass like calamagrostis would make 5 or 6’ every year thus creating summer shade, movement, sound and tactility. Overdam has variegated foliage and purplish beige flowers all summer :)
            Karl Foerster has green foliage on slightly bigger plant.
            Self supporting too:)
             
          • Sheal

            Sheal Total Gardener

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            How about a pergola for climbing plants. That would give you shade @Clueless76.
             
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            • Clueless76

              Clueless76 Gardener

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              That would definitely be interesting there @Sheal ! Creating a little separate room behind ❤️
               
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              • Sheal

                Sheal Total Gardener

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                Well it's better than a sunshade. :)
                 
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