Any suggestions for trees to plant for a medium size yard in the Portland, OR. area.?

Question

My yard is approximately 40x70, we live in typical newer subdivision and want some privacy and shade. I want something that'll grow up and not just out. However, I don't want surface roots. Suggestions?

thank you

Answer 1

I'm not sure if you are seeking a specimen tree, shade tree, flowering tree or maybe even a fruit tree. I can tell you that if you want to avoid surface roots stay away from the Silver Maples, Norway Maples, Lindens, Poplars, Sycamores and the list goes on. Here is a good link with some trees that are and are not surface root prone.  http://yardener.com/YardenersPlantHelper...

Also, here is a site where you can drill down to the type of tree you are seeking by Zone, Flowering or Non-Flowering etc. http://www.naturehills.com/

Good Luck!

Answer 2

Japanese maples are always beautiful. You can get species that have beautiful colors year round. They are deciduous though, so if you are looking for something thats evergreen, I would look for a really nice conifer, such as a cypress or juniper, contrary to popular belief they don't have to exist in 'formal' gardens. the conifers generally grow dense foilage so they are good privacy option. Podocarpus is also a nice evergreen privacy type plant.

Answer 3

I prefer fruit trees like Persimmon which is a medium size tree and gives fruit.  Chinese Pistache tree also grows well for me.  Avoid Bradford Pear and Silver Maple since they have weak wood that breaks easily in storms.

Answer 4

Rusty Blackhaw Viburnum

http://www.dirtdoctor.com/view_question....

Flatwood Plum (non-fruit)

http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ST521

Natchez Crepe Myrtles

http://landscaping.about.com/cs/shrubsbu...

Rose Of Sharon is actually a shrub with blossoming flowers, grows 8-12 ft tall

(mine is so beautiful)

http://www.dailyencouragement.net/images...

All of these would fit your needs for shade, privacy, with no surface or running roots.