We lost our front tree in a storm last summer and I'm looking for recommendations for a good shade tree. The front of our home is east facing if that helps.
Shade Tree Recommendation
- Thread starter BillBrasky4Cy
- Start date
Take a look at a Linden tree. Former neighbors had two in the front yard and we liked them.
Definitely do a lot of research to figure out what you want and how tall/wide the tree will be at maturity. Root system is another to consider - will it get into your water or septic lines, foundation, etc.
Definitely do a lot of research to figure out what you want and how tall/wide the tree will be at maturity. Root system is another to consider - will it get into your water or septic lines, foundation, etc.
I have some Autumn Blaze Maples I planted last year. I really like them. They grow fast (for a tree lol) and turn a really pretty red in the fall. I bought some larger ones (trunk diameter around 2-3" and that seemed to help. We didn't have much luck with smaller trees in the past.
Japaneese Beetles love Lindens, I wouldnt go there.
I have a pair of littleleaf lindens framing our driveway. I really like them. The one downside is they sprout a lot of random leaves off of the trunk and every branch. Then those little twigs die so after every wind you are picking up a bunch of little twigs, but that is a pretty minor problem.
Interesting. I haven't had this problem with my lindens even when the beetles are all over the neighborhood.
American Linden (Basswood) is native and very good. Better than a lot of the other Linden varieties.
Where are you located, midwest? Black Tupelo (Nyssa sylvatica) is a medium size shade tree with four season appeal. They aren't the easiest to find at a garden center, but they are worth seeking out.
I was gonna say same. Lindens are nice trees, and native, but they get shredded by the beetles.
Also probably relevant:
Iowa State Extension Tree Selection Guide
Tough to beat a maple. I've planted two in the past two years and have been very happy with the growth. No matter what you plant you'll probably be waiting a few years for shade but it's fun to watch them grow.
If you can, go with a native tree that will support the biodiversity in the area.
Oaks are #1 on that list I believe. I looked quickly on the web but couldnt find a list right away..
Oaks are #1 on that list I believe. I looked quickly on the web but couldnt find a list right away..