River Birches Gone Rogue: Picking the Right Poolside Tree
Q: We planted several river birches that are now proving to be a nightmare. The ones close to the house are breaking up the concrete due to their extensive root system. They drop sooooo many leaves and pool cleanup is daily. Should we replace trees close to the house with a tree that has a smaller root system? Should we replace trees near the pool? When would we need to plant trees?
A: One of the tree-form crape myrtles might work for you. “Natchez” has white flowers and interesting peeling bark, but it also drops leaves in fall along with lots of small seed pods. My observation is that the drop happens only in September and October. Also consider a redbud tree. Flamethrower, “Forest Pansy,” and The Rising Sun all have interesting leaf colors but are not as tall as a river birch.
You can plant trees anytime between now and late February. Research the latest information on how to plant trees correctly. Hire a tree planting company that will plant correctly and plan to be there when they work. I have details on planting trees at bit.ly/GAplantfruits.
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