The 15 Worst Trees to Put in Your Yard, Ranked in Order
Welcome, dear foliage fanatics and tree tenderfoots! Have you ever daydreamed about the perfect tree to grace your yard? The leafy shelter from the summer sun, the breathtaking array of blossoms in the springtime, or the awe-inspiring palette of autumn hues that captivates you? Not so fast! Our leafy friends aren’t all sunshine and roses. Indeed, some trees can transform your domestic paradise into a living nightmare.
So, buckle up, green thumbs, and enter the garden gauntlet, ranking the 15 worst trees to put in your yard. Prepare to be enlightened, entertained, and maybe a little shocked!
15 worst trees to put in your yard
Callery Pear
Don’t let those beautiful white spring blossoms of callery pear fool you. While pretty on the outside, this tree is like the roommate who leaves his dirty dishes in the sink—a problem beneath the surface. The Callery Pear is infamous for its weak wood and susceptibility to splitting in harsh weather.
To make matters worse, it’s an invasive species that outcompete native plants. In the yard-owner’s handbook, this one’s a clear-cut case of ‘looks can be deceiving.’
Siberian Elm
The Siberian Elm may seem charming, but there are better choices for your yard. These tough trees can withstand anything, but they spread aggressively, hog resources, and are prone to diseases. Think of them as unwelcome guests that bring trouble to your party.
Tree of Heaven
The name is a misnomer. This tree is invasive, fast-growing, and challenging to remove.
Lombardy Poplar
With a life expectancy of just 15 years and a penchant for disease, this tree is more trouble than it’s worth.
Silver Maple
This tree may be more of a court jester in your yard than a king. Its roots are notorious for plumbing invasions, and the weak wood is prone to storm damage. Plus, it’s a big-time seeder, meaning you might find yourself playing host to a family reunion of Silver Maples if you need to be more careful. You should think twice before letting it stake a claim in your yard.
Willow Tree
Beautiful but problematic; Willows have invasive roots that can wreak havoc on your plumbing.
Staghorn Sumac
Ah, Staghorn Sumac might win your heart with its fiery fall foliage and the way it offers cool shade in summer, but don’t be deceived! This tree is like the party guest who never leaves, constantly popping up uninvited all over your yard. Its roots spread aggressively, leading to new sprouts far from the original tree.
Unless you fancy an ongoing about of whack-a-mole with persistent saplings, it’s best to steer clear.
Mulberry
Ah, the Mulberry tree – Mother Nature’s glitter bomb. It may seem innocent enough with its green leaves and juicy berries. But beware, late summer brings sticky, staining nightmares. Your yard will be littered with smashed berries, and don’t even ask about your shoes (or your favorite carpet if you track them indoors).
Ranked as one of the worst trees to plant, scratch the mulberry tree off your invite list.
Ginkgo Biloba (Female)
While the male Ginkgo is a respectable tree, its female counterpart is literally nothing short of a stinker. The fruit it drops has an infamous, foul smell.
Ash
It’s a popular choice, sure, but make sure to let its good looks fool you! Ranked on our list of worst trees for your yard, the Ash brings more than shade and beauty. It’s a magnet for emerald ash borers, insects that can decimate your precious Ash in no time. So, if you’re not up for a full-time bug battle, you should swipe left on this tree.
Cottonwood
Cottonwoods have weak wood, and their cotton-like seeds can create quite a mess.
Black Locust
Black Locust tree may initially seem attractive, but don’t be fooled by its rapid growth and fragrant flowers. It’s like that guest who overstays their welcome, damaging house foundations and underground utilities with its aggressive root system.
Its brittle branches easily break off, and it spreads rapidly, invading your yard in no time. If you want peace, the Black Locust is not invited to your yard party.
Leyland Cypress
Known for its rapid growth and lush greenery, Leyland Cypress may seem like a dream for landscapers. But don’t be fooled. It’s prone to diseases, overgrowth, and privacy issues. If tree therapy existed, the Leyland Cypress would be a prime candidate.
Russian Olive
The Russian Olive is a notorious member of our ‘worst trees to plant in your yard.’ Sure, it may seem charming with its silvery foliage and the delicate yellow flowers it produces. But don’t let its external allure deceive you.
This tree is known for being invasive, seizing control of your yard faster than a toddler with a sweet tooth hitting a candy store. Plus, its roots are a nightmare for your sewer lines. The Russian Olive is a classic example of a pretty face hiding a troublesome personality.
Norway Maple
A classic example of an invasive species, the Norway Maple chokes out native plants and trees.
So, there you have it, the official lineup of the trees you’d rather not have as neighbors. Research before you plant is always a good idea – your garden (and your future self) will thank you!
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