trees - Knowledgebase Question

Shrubs
St . Michaels, Ar
Question by retrofreak20
June 12, 2007
When planting a tree on top of a retaining wall won't the tree outlast the retaining wall? The retaining will then have to be moved, so won't that disturb the roots and might kill the tree? I'm thinking of planting ginkgo on top of the retaining wall.


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Answer from NGA
June 12, 2007

0

 You're on the right track - a tree's root system can invade the soil adjacent to the retaining wall and can actually push it over or cause it to crack and crumble. Trees are not good candidates for planting near retaining walls. Their roots often travel nearly twice as far out as the longest branches. So a tree with a canopy of 30' could have roots extending out 50-60'. Instead of planting a tree atop your retaining wall, why not plant a shrub? Many can be trained into tree shapes with a single trunk and most will have shallow and narrow root systems so your retaining wall won't be compromised. Some shrubs to consider include viburnum, lilac, camellia, and crape myrtle. There are many more to choose from; visit your local garden center and you'll come away with ideas galore.

Best wishes with your landscape!

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