We have a ravine and small wooded trees in our backyard, what type of tree do you recommend to plant?

Question

Hi everyone,

Currently, our backyard consists of some trees and a ravine. Our lot is suppose to be a wooded lot, but we have to remove some dead trees and this will create open space. I want to plant some trees and give us nice shades/privacy, because we'll have a 2 story great room with huge windows. I heard hybrid poplar trees are the way to go.

We want something that will grow fast, give us shade and not too much mateience. We're in zone 5.

Thanks!

Answer 1

I am not up on the whole tree and garden thing, but I do have a couple things to mention that I hope will be helpful to you.

If at all possible, avoid anything that is bushy - like evergreens.  While they give the privacy you seek, they are also a haven for mosquitoes.  They love those things!  And you will be eaten alive!

When you took out the dead trees, did you do anything with the root systems of the removed ones?  Might you face problems with trying to plant in the new stuff, if the old root systems are still in place?  

HTH

Answer 2

willow trees!

Answer 3

Poplars invade sewer pipes.  Weeping willows are good to soak up water in the ravine.  Silver Maples are fast growing and can provide privacy until slower growing trees grow to height.  I have a wall of butterfly bushes (12'), Lilacs (12'), and Forsythia Bushes (9') that provide an excellent screen, but also provide great color and scents.  If you like wildlife the butterfly bush attracts humming birds, bees, and butterflies all Summer.