What small trees can I plant near a sidewalk without root damage?
Prior to planting, it is useful to do a soil analysis to determine the soil type, soil nutrient content, and soil pH to best match the tree to the site.
In some cases, installation of root barriers can direct tree roots deeply to reduce the chances of damaging the sidewalk. With a small ornamental tree, it is unlikely that you would experience sidewalk damage.
Flowering dogwood, kousa dogwood, Japanese snowbell (Styrax), star magnolia, sweetbay magnolia, cornelian-cherry dogwood, some varieties of crape myrtle, and winterberry holly are a few species that could work. Looking at dwarf conifers and large shrubs creates more alternatives.
The space the tree will occupy will help inform the decision.
In some cases, installation of root barriers can direct tree roots deeply to reduce the chances of damaging the sidewalk. With a small ornamental tree, it is unlikely that you would experience sidewalk damage.
Flowering dogwood, kousa dogwood, Japanese snowbell (Styrax), star magnolia, sweetbay magnolia, cornelian-cherry dogwood, some varieties of crape myrtle, and winterberry holly are a few species that could work. Looking at dwarf conifers and large shrubs creates more alternatives.
The space the tree will occupy will help inform the decision.