Thirsty Zone 6 Tree?
Question:I have a low spot in my yard that holds a great deal of water. I would like to plant a tree there that is low maintenance, suited to Zone 6, and would thrive on the extra moisture. A willow is out of the question because of the amount that it sheds. Any ideas?
Answers:
Larch (larix) a deciduous conifer with beautiful yellow-orange fall color. Pyramid shape.
River Birch or Black Birch (betula) nice trees, fairly tolerant of moisture, but not constant standing water
Red Maple (acer rubrum), likes moist soil but it must drain out.
Elder (sambucus)
I added the Latin names so you might check them on line.
Also, at your library, Michael Dirr's books will be of help. Dirr's Hardy Trees and Shrubs is a horticultural tome.
You can grow many things if the water drains after a week or so, (post rain). Native trees to your area, growing along river banks, will give you clues. I am not sure of what more to offer without a geographical location.
Good luck.
We put a river birch in a place like that in our yard. They have pretty peely bark and lovely yellow leaves in the fall. We liked it so well we planted 4 more to make a small grove along what used to be an unsightly drainage area along one side of our yard. The fine texture of the leaves and branches is so pretty and sounds good when the breeze blows through.
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