Small Trees for Foundation Planting

Space

• Small trees that can be trimmed into hedges generally work better near a building than trees with expansive branches. Even a small tree needs to be placed well away from a foundation in order for it to have sufficient room to grow.

Growth

• A small tree usually grows 8 to 30 feet high and has a spread equal to or slightly larger than its height. If planted too close to a building, its roots can damage the foundation and its branches scratch the siding.

Design

• Small trees can be positioned between windows or at building corners. Small trees near an entrance emphasize the importance of this area, while evergreens around the foundation bring harmony to the landscape.

Choices

• For year-round color in cold climates, small evergreen varieties are popular. A broadleaf evergreen such as Korean boxwood is hardy and good for hedges. The Chinese witchhazel tree grows in climate zones 5 to 8, and it can be shaped as a shrub or allowed to grow to a height of 10 to 15 feet.