Whether you want shade or privacy, planting trees in your yard offers many benefits. However, if you don't have much land, you have to carefully strategize where to place new trees to ensure their root systems don't infiltrate your septic system and rogue branches don’t scrape your roof. Below are several varieties that tree care professionals recommend for limited spaces.

What Are the Best Trees for Small Lawns?

1. Magnolias

Magnolia trees are perfect if you want to create a privacy barrier. They grow between 15-20 feet tall, and their dense canopies prevent prying eyes from peeking into your backyard. These produce large, sweet-smelling flowers in spring. 

Tree care professionals can trim their branches, sculpting trees into smaller oval bundles that aren't likely to sprawl over roofing. They can also test for magnolia weevils, a common pest that may damage the tree.

2. Weeping Cherry

These stunning small trees bloom beautiful pink and purple flowers each spring. They thrive in loamy soil and will grow best in a spot that receives full sun. While some varieties can grow large—at 40 feet tall—you can opt for a dwarf variety that is only approximately eight feet high. While trimming should be done infrequently to preserve their elegant, drooping branches, call professionals to remove any dead or damaged limbs.

3. Chaste Trees

Chaste trees follow a shrub-like growth pattern and feature blue-violet and white flowers. They prefer full sun in well-draining soil and welcome pruning each year. These grow eight to 20 feet tall and five to 20 feet wide. Durable but malleable, homeowners appreciate that this tree can be trimmed to be tall and thin, short and wide, or triangular in shape. Additionally, their roots are fairly shallow—only reaching about two to three feet down—meaning they are not a risk to your underground plumbing. Combined, this makes them ideal if you want to add creative, versatile growth to your small yard.

If you’re looking for tree care services in the Greater Houston, TX, area contact Nature’s Tree Removal of Houston. Based in Katy, these professionals provide comprehensive tree services, including pruning, stump grinding, and tree removal. Call (713) 824-9036 to schedule a consultation. Learn more about their company by visiting their website.