6/15

Weeping Willow

Weeping willow (Salix babylonica) is a beautiful tree when seen along the shoreline, but it’s much too big and messy for the typical home landscape. Add in the fact that the roots go everywhere in search of water (particularly problematic near septic systems and sewer pipes), and you can see why this one needs to stay by the water — and away from your yard. Here’s how to prune a tree without hurting the branches.

7/15

Staghorn Sumac

Staghorn sumac (Rhus typhina) is a relative of poison ivy and causes allergic skin reactions in many (but not all) people. It is quite attractive in fall, when it turns color, but its roots keep popping up new sprouts, so before you know it, you’ve got a colony of staghorn sumacs giving your skin the willies. Want some alternatives with great fall color? Here are 11 trees to consider.

8/15

Mulberry

Mulberry (Morus spp.) is a messy tree you don’t want anywhere near your driveway, walkway, porch, deck, patio, pool — heck, let’s get straight to the point: you don’t want this tree in your yard, period. The fruit stains everything it comes in contact with. Yes, the fruit is edible, but it’s rather bland. And the birds get most of it, and then leave droppings on your car. Mulberries also grow readily from seed, so you’ll undoubtedly have more weeding to do in the years to come. When it comes to woodpeckers, here’s what you can do to keep them from becoming a nuisance or a threat to your trees.