The 12 Worst Trees to Put in Your Yard, Ranked in Order
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Not all trees are created equal when it comes to landscaping. Some can cause more headaches than shade.
Avoid these nightmare trees if you’re a homeowner, landscaper, or gardening enthusiast. We’ve ranked the worst offenders so you know which ones to avoid!
Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima)
This devilish tree is the epitome of an invasive pest. National Geographic confirms that it eliminates native species due to its dense thicket and toxins in the soil.
Its flowers give off a not-so-great smell, lack natural predators, and provide a haven for harmful invasive insects like the spotted lanternfly.
Siberian Elm (Ulmus pumila)
This aggressive grower seeds itself everywhere, leaving a mess in its wake. Its weak wood is prone to storm damage; frankly, it’s not beautiful.
Bradford/Callery Pear (Pyrus calleryana)
With weak branches that easily break in storms and its invasive nature, the Callery Pear is a disaster waiting to happen.
Lombardy Poplar (Populus nigra)
Despite its attractive upright shape, it has a short lifespan, making it a poor long-term choice. According to the University of Florida, multiple suckers often appear at the base of these trees and occasionally on roots far from the tree, and the roots are invasive.
Also, the trees are very susceptible to stem canker disease, which usually limits their life to only 10 or 15 years.
Silver Maple (Acer saccharinum)
Weak-wooded and messy, this tree’s shallow roots and prolific seeding make it more trouble than it’s worth. Plus, its fall color is lackluster compared to other maples.
Weeping Willow (Salix babylonica)
This large tree is far too messy for most yards. Its invasive roots can wreak havoc on sewer pipes and septic systems. Though weeping willows are visually appealing with their graceful, swaying branches, it’s important to note that these trees come with invasive root systems and relatively short lifespans.
They may also face diseases and pest issues, such as willow anthracnose, willow scab, and black canker.
Mulberry (Morus spp.)
Messy fruits stain everything and attract birds, leading to even more weeding from self-seeding. They are not advisable for your yard.
Staghorn Sumac (Rhus typhina)
Its pollen can cause allergic reactions. Its invasive roots and tendency to form colonies make it a backyard bully.
To keep sumac stands healthy, it is best to clear out competing plants through mowing, using chemicals, or controlled fires.
Leyland Cypress (Cupressus x leylandii)
Leyland Cypress roots have a robust growth rate and may sometimes damage nearby structures such as buildings, driveways, and sidewalks.
Additionally, these roots might intrude into sewer pipes or water lines, resulting in significant problems that necessitate costly repairs.
White Ash
Regrettably, ash trees can be quite a nuisance for allergy sufferers during early Spring. Allergic reactions to ash pollen may bring on symptoms like sneezing, nasal congestion, watery eyes, a runny nose, itchy throat and eyes, and even wheezing.
American Elm
Elms usually have shallow root systems, and these trees can get quite stressed or even damaged by soil compaction.
Oak
Oak trees are sometimes associated with foundation damage. Their broad root systems can extend up to 90 feet horizontally and reach depths of about 4 feet.
These roots may find their way into foundation cracks, absorbing moisture from the soil and potentially leading to subsidence.
Avoid these troublesome trees, and your yard and sanity will thank you. Instead, opt for tree species that are less invasive and more suited to residential areas.
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