Question
I have a maple tree that was planted about 8 feet from our house. I am wondering if this tree's root system will eventually cause damage to my foundation? What is the closest a person could safely plant a maple tree to their house (specifically speaking about the root system damage to a foundation)?

Also, if a Hybrid Poplar needs to be cut down, I heard these trees are notorious for growing back. How would I kill the root system? Thanks so much!

Answer
Maples size will vary depending on the variety of maple. Japanese maples vary from 6 feet tall to 25 feet tall and about that same width of spread (the roots will be about 1 1/2 times the width of the foliage.) Sugar ample are about a width of 30-45 feet. Maple can be kept small by pruning the limbs in the Fall after the leaves have turned. I do not think you will have a problem with the roots and the foundation since maple is normally not a problem. But the limbs on the larger varieties will grow and may rub the house (this can be solved with pruning).

When you cut the popular paint the stump soon after it is cut with a herbicide called Roundup. Use it straight from the container and use a cheap brush to paint the top of the stump. The herbicide will be taken up by the stump and transported to the root system killing the roots and the tree will not sprout back. IF some roots are not killed and do sprout you can wipe the Roundup on the foliage and this will also kill the roots. Be aware that Roundup will kill any green plant it is put on so make sure you do not get it on a plant not wanted to be killed.