Choosing the Right Trees to Plant

Choosing the Right Trees to Plant

There are also common trees that grow several feet each year in Kansas City and thrive well in the Kansas City climate and soil. The hybrid poplar (Populus deltoids) grows 5 to 8 feet a year. It’s often planted in rows as a shade tree to reduce energy expenses. The weeping willow (Salix Babylonica) can grow from 3 to 8 feet a year and is popular in Kansas City. The quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides) is a member of the same family as the hybrid polar and is also a speedy growing tree. It adds instant beauty to any landscape with its brilliant fall foliage. The green giant (Arborvitae) is a hybrid and provides an exceptional landscape tree for use as a hedge, screen or windbreak.

While Kansas City is favorable for a wide species of trees, there are some that you should avoid. The Norway maple (Acer platanoides) has a shallow root system that can damage driveways and foundations. In addition, this species of maple is often under attack by fungi. Although the ash tree (Fraxinus) was planted in large numbers in the past, it has recently come under attack by a new pest and is quickly being destroyed.