Selecting Small Trees for Tight Front Yard Spaces

Tree

South Carolina homeowner needs small, low-maintenance shade tree for 20-25 ft porch-to-road space. Current maple 9-10 ft from porch, limbs hitting roof. Pruned 2 years ago.

Recommended Species (SC Forestry Commission)

• Crape Myrtle
• Dogwood (Kousa)
• Redbud (Eastern)
• Golden Raintree

Avoid cherry and maple due to disease issues.

Alternative: Restructure Current Tree

If tree has single trunk, limb up (remove lower branches to main trunk). Upper canopy grows over house, eliminating annual pruning. Clear trunk height = no roof contact.

Consult SC Forestry Commission for site-specific advice.