Gardening enthusiasts often dream of lush greenery and beautiful trees in their outdoor spaces, but some species can turn that dream into a nightmare. A leading horticulture expert has identified five trees that homeowners should never plant due to their invasive roots, rapid growth, or maintenance headaches.
The Trouble-Making Trees
While trees add beauty and value to properties, certain varieties come with significant drawbacks:
- Willow Trees: Their thirsty roots seek out water pipes and drainage systems, potentially causing thousands in plumbing repairs.
- Poplar Trees: Fast-growing but weak-wooded, these trees frequently drop branches during storms.
- Eucalyptus: Their rapid growth and shedding bark create constant mess and potential fire hazards.
- Leylandii: These popular hedges grow uncontrollably, leading to disputes with neighbours over light obstruction.
- Silver Maple: Brittle branches and aggressive surface roots make them problematic near buildings.
Expert Recommendations
The gardening specialist advises considering native species like rowan, hawthorn or crab apple trees instead. "These alternatives provide wildlife benefits without the destructive tendencies," the expert explains.
For those already dealing with problematic trees, regular professional maintenance can help manage issues, but complete removal may be the best long-term solution in severe cases.
