Landscape - Some Species to Think Twice About Planting

The following are some landscape tree and shrub species that are often used for screens, windbreaks, or border plantings in Delaware. Each has problems that you should consider and should be avoided in some or all landscapes as indicated below.

Leyland cypress are not well adapted to dry or wet sites. They have been overplanted and are planted too close in many cases. With limited root systems, may also start to lean with heavy winds or die in droughts. They are best planted wide apart in soils that are well drained but not droughty.

Eastern White Pine is a good tree for many sites. However it does poorly in compacted soils or drought prone areas such as berm plantings. They also do not tolerate soils with high water tables or are prone to being wet. Avoid planting these trees in all those situations.

Poplars in general are short lived, prone to limb breakage, and susceptible to many diseases and insects.

Lombardy poplars are short lived and prone to diseases and insects and should not be planted.

Willow species can be good choices for wet sites and are quick growing. However they are very prone to limb breakage, storm damage, and uprooting.

Privet can become an invasive plant in natural areas an we no longer recommend planting it in Delaware.

Autumn Olives are readily spread by birds (from seed eaten) and can be very invasive. It is recommended not to plant them because of this issue.

Spreading bamboos have caused more neighbor disputes that any other plants in DE when planted on property borders. Only plant them in places where they can be controlled.

Burning Bush can become an invasive plant in natural areas an we no longer recommend planting it in Delaware.

Japanese Barberry can become an invasive plant in natural areas an we no longer recommend planting it in Delaware.

Information by Gordon Johnson, Extension Horticultural Agent, UD, Kent County