Q: I am looking for a shade tree that will grow quickly but not have evasive roots. Recently, I found a book that says green ash grows quickly, can tolerate dry, compact soil and has a strong structure; it sounds like a good fit. Would this tree survive here?

A: Green ash should be hardy down here, but I rarely see it. Dr. Dirr notes that trees taken from the southern part of the ash’s normal range (Zones 3 – 6) might do better here. A phenomenon known as ash decline can be a problem. I say, plant it if you can find it and let me know how it turns out.