Trees and vines are a couple of plant types that are excellent sources of shade for a home. However, they can also damage your siding, brickwork, gutters, and even the foundation. So you know what to avoid, here is a list of 5 plants that can damage your home. Keep this list in mind when you are about to plant a newly purchased tree or vine next to your home.
5. Madeira Vine
This weedy vine can be found in Australia. Most people already know it’s a weed and eradication of it is difficult. The dark green heart-shaped leaves may be beautiful, but this plant will destroy just about anything in its path. If it does ever start to grow near your home then be sure to get rid of it as soon as possible.
4. Willow Trees
When these are planted near a water line, they will often try to dig their roots directly into a water pipe connection. They are naturally water-loving plants. Be sure to place these trees far away from any water lines or septic system in your yard.
Frequently asked questions
Oh absolutely! Some plants, especially those with aggressive root systems, can mess with your home's structure if planted too close. It's surprising, but true!
Roots are sneaky! They search for water and can squeeze into tiny spaces, like cracks in your foundation. Over time, they can make those small cracks bigger, leading to major problems. Yikes!
Research is your best friend! Look up plant names and check out how their root systems behave. There are tons of resources online, or you can ask a local gardening expert.
Not necessarily! You can still enjoy plants near your foundation; just be choosy with what you plant. Some plants with shallow, non-invasive roots can be safe options.
Not all, but definitely some! Plants like ivy, lilacs, and grapes have roots that can be problematic if they're too close to your house. Choosing the right plants is key!
3. Plants That Thrive in Alkaline Soil
Not all plants that do well in alkaline soil will damage your foundation, but it might be best to not take a chance. Place these types of plants far away from concrete foundations. The concrete gives off alkaline, which might cause many plants to grow towards the foundation and even into it.
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Place these types of plants far away from concrete foundations. The concrete gives off alkaline, which might cause many plants to grow towards the foundation and even into it. Examples of such plants include lavender, yucca, and rosemary. These plants can develop aggressive root systems that seek out the alkaline environment provided by your home's concrete foundation. Lavender thrives in dry, well-drained, alkaline soil and can rapidly spread its roots. Similarly, yucca has deep, expansive roots that can penetrate foundations. By situating these plants away from your home's base, you can prevent potential structural damage and preserve your garden's beauty.
2. Trees That Send out Runners
Mimosa trees are known for sending runners all over the place, which leads to new trees popping up where these runners end at. Lilac, Ginkgo trees, sassafras trees, and even some types of oak trees multiply in this manner. Keep these trees away from your foundation.
1. English Ivy
Everyone loves this plant, but it does have the potential to damage your home as it climbs up the side of it. Especially if you live in a home built of bricks, you’ll want to make sure this vine stays away from the brickwork. A fence of some sort can be provided for this ivy to climb on if you do wish to have it crawl up the side of your home. The tiny tendrils will actually pry between bricks and cause them to loosen.
Can you think of any other trees, vines, or plants in general that shouldn’t be placed near a home, for fear of damage to its structure?
Top Photo Credit: Keith.CA
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Lynda: Wish u have pictures!
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