Willow vs. Blue Spruce: Property Line Tree Concerns

Question: My neighbor planted a willow one foot from the property line; I have five blue spruces 15 feet on my side (Northwest Illinois). Will the willow's trunk encroach? Will it overshadow my spruces?

Answer: Know the Mature Sizes & Root Habits

• Weeping willow: 30–40 ft tall, 35 ft spread. Branches may reach 10–12 ft onto your property.
• Blue spruce: 50–75 ft tall (up to 100 ft), 25 ft spread.

The spruce will likely outgrow the willow vertically, so shading isn't a major concern. However, the willow's invasive roots seek water aggressively—potentially damaging sidewalks, pipes, or foundations nearby. Average trunk diameter is ~2 ft.

Monitor root encroachment and consider a root barrier if critical infrastructure is at risk.