AboutJim Hyland Expertise Registered Forester in the Southern US with 30 years experiance in managing pines. Expert in pine forest health from management to control of pests to ID of species.
Question I need to plant a few trees that will grow to a fair height 30-40 minimum but they need to be lined along a driveway that has only 34 inches of clearance to a property line. The problem is, the roots in one direction roots will be covered by the cement pad of a driveway. This would restrict access to water I would think not to mention the possibility of driveway damage. Any suggestions?
If this can't be achieved, are there any fair compromises?
Answer There is no tree that will fit into a 34 inch space without either the branches extending over the drive OR the roots damaging the drive. You really only have 17 inches of clearance from the stem of a plant to the drive. I really think you do not need to plant any tree or shrub in this space. Maybe need to look at a low ground cover type plant or a day Lilly bed or Hosta plants along the drive.
I would check with a local nursery and discuss with them the space needs and select a plant that will grow well in your location.
