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The Trees You Might Want to Think Twice About Planting in Montgomery

It’s fall and many trees are losing their leaves as we all prepare for the cold to come. So you may be surprised that we’re talking about planting them now. But fall is actually one of the best times to do just that. Yes, plant those majestic, leafy wonders that give shade, charm, and curb appeal to your Goodwyn property. But not all trees are created equal, especially here in Montgomery, AL. While a stately oak or a flowering dogwood can boost your home’s beauty (and resale value), some trees have a sneaky side. They might clog your gutters, wreck your sidewalks, or even invade your foundation. Let’s dig into the leafy troublemakers you might want to avoid.

Silver Maple

Sure, they grow fast and provide plenty of shade, but silver maples come with baggage. Their roots are aggressive and can crack sidewalks, invade septic systems, and even cause foundation issues if planted too close to your house. Plus, those big leaves drop everywhere in the fall, making gutter cleaning a full-time job.

Bradford Pear

Ah, the Bradford pear. It’s pretty in spring with its clusters of white blossoms, but looks can be deceiving. These trees are prone to splitting and breaking in storms—a common issue here in Alabama’s sometimes volatile weather. That means branches in your yard, damaged fencing, and a headache waiting to happen.

Poplar (Cottonwood)

Poplars grow quickly and can reach impressive heights, but their shallow roots and large seed “cotton” can be a nuisance. They tend to suck up lots of water, which can affect nearby plants and even strain sewer lines. That fluffy seed stuff? It’ll coat everything within 50 feet—windows, cars, and your sanity.

Willow

Willows are romantic in movies, but not so much in real life. Their roots are notorious for seeking water sources, which means they can invade sewer lines, drains, and foundations. If you’re near a pool, pond, or septic system, steer clear—they might love your water supply a little too much.

Tree of Heaven

This fast-growing, hardy tree might survive anywhere, but it spreads aggressively. Its root system is invasive, and it produces a chemical that can stunt the growth of nearby plants. Plus, removing it is a nightmare. If you see one on your property, it’s best to act sooner rather than later.

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Tips for Choosing Safer Trees

• Stick with native species – They’re better adapted to Montgomery’s climate and soil.
• Consider root growth – Plant big trees away from foundations, driveways, and sidewalks.
• Think long-term – Fast-growing trees may be tempting, but slow, steady growers often cause fewer problems.

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Leaves Fall So Trees Can Rise

At Goodwyn Homes, we love a beautiful yard as much as anyone, but we also know that choosing the right trees keeps your property safe and low-maintenance. Want help picking the perfect, worry-free trees for your Montgomery home? Reach out and we’ll help you plant with confidence.

By GOODWYN BUILDING STAFF 10-1-2025