Home > Urban/suburban design > Species selection
Species selection for hardscape compatibility
1) Some trees develop a very prominent root flare or swelling at the base of the trunk. This buttress can lift sidewalks and curbs soon after planting in many circumstances if special provisions are not incorporated into the design. Trees that cause damage tend to be those that grow to a large size. Although planting small statured trees can help to minimize damage to curbs and sidewalks, small trees provide few of the benefits to the community that large trees provide.
2) Some communities choose trees that do not produce fleshy fruit for along streets and in parking lots. This could reduce the likelihood of people slipping and falling on walks and pavement.
3) It is usually best to avoid those with long sharp thorns or spines unless the thorns will be well above the ground and out of the way.
4) Trees tolerant of low soil oxygen conditions often perform better than other trees when placed in small restricted soil spaces with poor drainage.
