I want to put a shade tree in the bed directly in front of a window. Here are the requirements—does such a tree exist? I love dogwoods so I'm hoping there is a variety that can be placed close to the house.
-zone 6a
-west facing with direct afternoon sun
-needs to be planted within 4' of the house
-flowering
Name: Big Bill Livonia Michigan (Zone 6a) If you need to relax, grow plants!!
I am curious. Why do you want to plant something that close to the house?
How many trees do you see that close to a house? You won't see many because of potential problems. Roots invading sewer lines. Roots damaging foundation. Branches damaging shingles of roof or paint and or siding. Algae discoloring the house.
I am sure there are more issues but you wont see many if any because it is not a good idea,
Trees that might fit because they are small in stature like a dogwood are not going to give you shade due to their limited height.
Orchid lecturer, teacher and judge. Retired Wildlife Biologist. Supervisor of a nature preserve up until I retired.
Dogwoods are very temperamental.
Wouldn't stand a chance in those conditions here, might have a chance there, but you would probably have better results with a climbing rose, or maybe a rose of Sharon.
One other thing to remember, flowering trees make such a mess when the flowers die off, what about a pretty trellis in front of the window with some nice growing vines, just a thought
stone said:Dogwoods are very temperamental.
Wouldn't stand a chance in those conditions here, might have a chance there, but you would probably have better results with a climbing rose, or maybe a rose of Sharon.
Great minds think alike--I also thought of a vigorous climbing rose, perhaps even with some form of ivy or clematis. When I lived in Old Louisville there were several Victorian-era houses which had climbing roses growing up the sides of the buildings and even in winter, the branches were gorgeous. They also didn't impact the foundation or underpinnings of the house nearly as much as a tree would.
maybe try an elderberry bush. They can reach over 12' tall and be trained to grow like a tree. I have a black sambuca one in my front planter bed. It will die back in harsh winters but the roots are strong and it grows quickly.
Name: Angie Victoria, British Columbia, Ca (Zone 8b)
What about a rhododendron? They have beautiful spring flowers and shallow roots. Not a tree but can grow quite large over many years and can be pruned. Nice evergreen leaves too.
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