The Best Trees With Non-Invasive Roots

While the canopy of a tree is a great source of shade on a hot summer day, the roots of a tree provide some unseen benefits. Tree roots help absorb water, which can help reduce flooding. They also provide ground stability that can prevent soil erosion. However, some tree roots can cause more harm than good. The roots of certain trees can damage your home and property, and even present a safety risk. If you’re considering adding trees to your property for decoration, shade, and curb appeal, save yourself some headaches and choose trees with non-invasive roots. The lawn care and landscape experts at The Grounds Guys® have some valuable advice to help you make the right decision when it comes to choosing the best trees with non-invasive roots.

Characteristics of Trees with Non-Invasive Roots?

What are non-invasive root trees? They are trees that have a root system with the following characteristics:

• Roots that grow vertically (and deeply) into the soil rather than spreading horizontally near the surface.
• Roots that grow and spread slowly, reducing the likelihood of encroaching on nearby structures and hardscapes.
• Roots that are less likely to extend far beyond the tree’s drip line (the edge of the tree’s canopy).
• Roots that are less likely to compete with other plants for water and nutrients.
• Roots that respond well to management and that are more adaptable to pruning and shaping.

Why Choose Trees with Non-Invasive Roots?

Maybe you already have your heart set on selecting trees with large and/or shallow root systems. Before you make a final decision consider the following.

Trees with shallow roots and large root systems are more likely to:

• Crack and buckle your foundations, driveways, and sidewalks as they seek moisture
• Infiltrate sewer lines and underground plumbing, causing serious clogs and pipe damage
• Make it difficult for you to plant garden beds or even grow grass at the base of the tree
• Erupt from the soil, representing a tripping hazard to family members and guests

While certain trees have a decorative appeal, this often comes with a price (literally) when dealing with the invasive nature of their root system. Fixing your foundation, driveway, water system, or sewage system is not cheap. Depending on the location, trees with invasive, exposed roots also create a safety issue on your property in the form of a trip hazard. These trees can also make lawn care and maintenance more difficult when you have to work around their exposed roots.

While all trees have extensive root systems, some are more aggressive and problematic than others. Choosing trees with small root systems lowers the risk of potential damage to your home, property, and provides a safer environment for residents and guests. In addition, trees with shallow, exposed roots are more susceptible to damage from high winds and storms because the roots are unable to support the weight of the tree in such conditions.

Top Trees with Non-Invasive Roots for Canadian Gardens

When choosing trees for your property, take the long-term approach. Depending on the species, many trees have a long life, which means they will most likely outlive those who plant them. So trees that are relatively small and slender today, will eventually grow much larger, spreading their branches and roots as they grow. So, it’s important to consider the future and choose wisely when selecting trees for your property. To help you make an informed decision, here are some of the best trees with non-invasive roots.

Amur Maple

This compact tree is native to Asia but has been widely planted in Canada due to its adaptability and attractive features. Amur maples typically grow to a height of 4.5 to 6 metres (15 to 20 feet), making them a lovely option for small gardens or along curbs that line streets. This maple is prized for its stunning fall foliage, with leaves that turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow. It’s also known for its non-invasive, slow-growing root system that rarely causes problems when it comes to foundations or sidewalks.

Serviceberry

Also known as Juneberries or Saskatoon berries, this group of small, native deciduous trees and large shrubs are found throughout Canada. Typically ranging from 4.5 to 7.5 metres (15 to 25 feet), serviceberry trees offer multi-season interest. In early spring, they bloom with showy white flowers, followed by edible berries that ripen in June. The berries are popular with both birds and humans. The serviceberry’s fibrous, non-invasive root system works well in most landscape settings.

Japanese Tree Lilac

Popular in Canadian gardens, the Japanese tree lilac is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree with a non-aggressive root system that works well near paved surfaces or in smaller landscape beds. The tree grows roughly 6 to 9 metres tall (20 to 30 feet) and features an oval to rounded crown. It has attractive, dark-green foliage and an ornamental reddish-brown bar. In mid-summer, the Japanese tree lilac produces beautiful panicles of creamy white, fragrant flowers that attract butterflies and other pollinators.

Crabapple

One of the best trees with small root systems, the crabapple is widely planted in Canada and is appreciated for its attractive flowers, fruit, and foliage. These small, deciduous trees typically grow 4.5 to 6 metres (15 to 25 feet). In spring, they produce stunning pink, white, or red flowers that attract pollinators. In the fall, their leaves turn shades of orange, yellow, or red, and the tree produces small, colourful fruits that provide interest and food for birds.

Smoketree

Also known as Smoke Bushes, this small, deciduous tree or large shrub is a great pick for many Canadian gardens. They usually grow just 3 to 4.5 metres (10 to 15 feet) and possess a small, non-invasive root system that works well in various landscapes. The tree earns its name from its unique, smoke-like plumes of fine, hair-like flowers that appear in summer, creating a hazy, ethereal effect. In the fall, the foliage turns rich colours of red, orange, and yellow.

Trees with Shallow Roots

Some of Canada's most beautiful and popular trees are also trees with shallow roots. These types of trees may look gorgeous on your property in the short term, but their roots can cause problems, growing under and lifting sidewalks, driveways, and patios. These shallow-root trees are also less stable than deep rooted trees, making them more susceptible to damage from strong winds, heavy snow, or ice storms.

Here are some popular trees with shallow roots that you might want to avoid:

• Red Maples
• Silver Maples
• Willows
• Birches
• Poplars

How to Plant and Care for Non-Invasive Root Trees

As with any tree, proper care and maintenance is essential for healthy growth and development. While non-invasive root trees are no different, the good news is that they don’t require any extra care and/or maintenance. Here are some steps to follow to ensure your non-invasive root trees get a great start:

• Choose the right location based on the tree’s potential growth, sunlight requirements, and soil preferences.
• Prepare the planting location by digging a hole that is two to three times wider than the tree’s root ball and slightly shallower.
• Amend the soil as needed. It’s always best to test the soil before planting to ensure conditions are optimal.
• Once the tree is removed from its container, loosen the roots. Place the tree in the center of the hole, ensuring that the root collar (where the roots meet the trunk) is level with or just above the surface of the ground.
• Backfill the hole with the amended soil, gently pressing it around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
• Apply a layer of mulch around the tree’s base, keep mulch away for the tree trunk a few centimetres to ensure a healthy start.
• Water the newly planted tree regularly. Keep the soil moist but not soggy. As the tree becomes established, gradually reduce the watering frequency while increasing the amount of water per session to encourage deep root growth.
• Fertilize your tree as needed by applying a slow-release, balanced fertilizer. Early spring is usually the best time to fertilize your trees.
• Prune the tree when it goes dormant to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
• Monitor your tree for signs of stress, disease, or pest infestation.

Once your trees have been planted, the work is not done. All trees, especially young ones, need proper care and maintenance to grow healthy and strong. Give your trees the best chance to flourish by ensuring they receive proper care and maintenance.

Ready to Add New Trees to Your Landscape?

Choosing the right types of trees for your property can be a challenge, but you don’t have to go it alone. The Grounds Guys have local teams throughout Canada that are experts when it comes to choosing the right trees for your property. We will assess your property and recommend tree varieties that meet your specific needs. We will even plant your new trees to ensure they get a great start. Need help with your entire landscape? We can do that too! Whether you want lots of trees for a shady respite from the summer sun, a gorgeous garden, and/or a thick lawn, our teams can make it all happen and keep it all looking great with our landscape and lawn care services. To get started, request a free estimate today!

This article is intended for general guidance only and is not applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your property and situation. The Grounds Guys are not responsibe for any damages that occur as a result of advice and/or guidance derived from its blog content.

The Grounds Guys services may vary by location. Contact The Grounds Guys franchise nearest you for more information.