Selecting the Right Trees: Avoiding Aggressive Roots Near Swimming Pools in Mediterranean Gardens

 

When planting trees near swimming pools in Mediterranean countries, it's crucial to avoid species with aggressive root systems that can damage the pool structure, plumbing, and surrounding paving. Here are some trees to avoid due to their invasive root systems:

Trees to Avoid Near Swimming Pools

Willows (Salix spp.)

- Types: Weeping willow, black willow, white willow.

- Why: Extremely aggressive roots that seek out water sources and can damage pool plumbing.

Poplars (Populus spp.)

- Types: Lombardy poplar, white poplar, black poplar.

- Why: Fast-growing trees with invasive roots that can cause significant structural damage.

Oaks (Quercus spp.)

- Types: Pin oak, willow oak, red oak.

- Why: Deep and extensive root systems that can disrupt pool foundations and plumbing.

Elms (Ulmus spp.)

- Types: American elm, Chinese elm, Siberian elm.

- Why:Aggressive roots that can spread widely and disrupt pool structures.

Silver Maple (Acer saccharinum)

- Why: Very invasive roots that can grow quickly and damage nearby structures, including pools.

Ficus (Ficus spp.)

- Types: Weeping fig, rubber tree, banyan tree.

- Why: Aggressive and invasive root systems that can damage pool walls and plumbing.

Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus spp.)

- Types: Blue gum, river red gum, swamp mahogany.

- Why: Fast-growing with roots that can spread widely and cause damage to pool structures.

Camphor Tree (Cinnamomum camphora)

- Why: Large and aggressive root system that can disrupt foundations and pool structures.

Sycamore (Platanus spp.)

- Types: American sycamore, London plane tree.

- Why: Aggressive root systems that can spread extensively and cause structural damage.

Mulberry (Morus spp.)

- Types: Red mulberry, white mulberry.

- Why: Invasive root systems that seek out water sources and can damage pool infrastructure.

Considerations for Planting Near Pools

- Root Barriers: If you must plant trees with potentially invasive roots near your pool, consider installing root barriers to direct root growth away from the pool.

- Distance: Plant trees at least 15-20 feet away from the pool to minimize the risk of root intrusion.

- Alternative Choices: Opt for trees with less aggressive root systems, such as ornamental trees or smaller species that pose less risk to pool structures.

Better Tree Choices Near Pools

If you still want trees near your pool, consider species known for their non-invasive root systems:

- Crepe Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica)

- Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum)

- Ornamental Pear (Pyrus calleryana)

- Dwarf Citrus Trees (Citrus spp.)

- Hibiscus Tree (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)

 Photo by Tato Grasso