Question
QUESTION: How close to a Versa-Lok retaining wall (behind/on top) should I expect to plant a Malus Spring Snow?  I would like to plant one between each of the two sets of window in front of my home (mulberry colored brick), but on the one side I have a two tiered (level 1: 5", level 2: 4')retaining wall about 3-4 feet away.  I would consider alternative trees if it is not advisable to plant this tree near the wall.

ANSWER: George,

Thank for contacting me. I am pleased to offer you the following advice.

When determining plants for any location, I would suggest that you consider the overall size at maturity, roots habit of growth, and the amount of and ease of maintenance that is required for your proposed plant(s).

Another consideration is the type of soil, water, and fertilizer required in relationship to the plants already present, and how those plants will affect the proposed plant's habit of growth.

The Versa-Lok retaining wall system has some great applications, but if plants chosen to be used in close proximity to it such as trees and aggressive root systems of other plants that send out long or thick feeder roots, it is not the idea choice of retaining wall.

If I can be of any further help or assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me.

For your landscapes ultimate success,

David



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: To be certain that we both are in agreement; the tiered wall runs along the driveway and I have planting beds between the tiers and on top that turn 90 and flow across the front of my home.  I want to plant in front of home next to wall, not in the first tier.  I have no other plantings yet, just a drawing.  I need something with some height.  If not the spring snow or other tree...any suggestions. The other plants in the beds are liriope muscari, roses, green luster holy, pink beauty potentilla, and anthony watered spirea.

Answer
Hi George,

Thank you for responding. Without seeing the actual site plan, I do not feel that i can give you the very best advice possible as a horticulturist or architect, but I would suggest that you find out the mature height and dimension of the plants you intend to install and make certain that they do not encroach on your home's fascia.

One of the most common mistakes of homeowners is to 1) plant too close to the foundation of their home, and 2) choose a plant whose habit of growth is naturally too large or sprawling for the area chosen. Ideally, you do not want to have to spend time (something that for most people is in short supply) pruning plants needlessly when you could haved planted something whose habit of growth is more compatible with the area to be landscaped.

Again, without knowing dimensions and surrounding features, underground utilities, soil conditions, drainage, irrigation, window height and locations, overhangs, etc. it is difficult to give specific recommendations. If you would like to forward me a scanned image of the area (site plan and/or design sketch and possibly some digital photographs of the area, I would be happy to look further into this for you and give you a correct recommendation based on what I can see and extrapolate from your photos and plans.