I could really use some help here, could you all suggest a good tree for this specific situation? I live in a row house, and will be removing a tree (I think it might be an Ash tree) that is leaning over the sidewalk and is too close for comfort to my foundation. The building is very old and I'm afraid it might cause some problems if I let it get bigger. I'm looking for a tree with good multi-seasonal value, that will be a nice scale for the house (2 stories) and will not drop berries which can easily be tracked into the house via the front door. I have attached a picture. I was thinking an eastern redbud would be lovely but I don't think it will be big enough or grow fast enough for this spot. I'm in zone 5b -- near lake michigan. Thanks everyone! http://www.rigshowcase.com/img/354P8H7D/13369.jpg
Would this be a good tree for this spot? Corinthian White Flowering Peach Prunus persica 'Corinthian White'
There are many nice acers, have you considered them? The japanese ones get lovely autumn colours. If you don't want a wide tree, there are column growing poplars, like Populus tremula "Erecta". And Cornus alternifoia or C. controversa might be worth looking at too.
I love maples, and I also love poplars, but I have read that both should never be planted closer than 25 feet from the foundation... and this planting will be very close indeed -- 4 feet or so. I will definitely look at the Cornus alternifoia or C. controversa! Thanks for the suggestions. Anyone else have some input?
Another great specimen tree for tight spaces like this one is a Japanese Tree Lilac. They're oval shaped, and can be kept more upright if you don't have the space. They come in single stem or multi-stem clump forms, grow to 25 feet pretty quickly, have great white lilac flowers that bloom a little later than other lilacs, and have a great bark texture. I have several in my yard. They do best in full sun and like good drainage.
Since I live in the Carolinas I believe Eastern Redbud is a great choice. I have plenty of rooted seedlings around the property so if you want to wait 10 years for it to mature I'll send some along.
I love Hinoki Cypress for a specimen tree, but of course there's no flowers. Beautiful form though, and a great accent with some bright annuals around it. Here, check this out: http://www.nurserytrees.com/Hinoki%20Cypress.htm Red twig dogwood has year-round interest, too.
