Importance of Choosing the Right Plants to Protect Sidewalk Integrity

Plants, particularly trees, are often planted near sidewalks to provide shade, improve air quality, and enhance the aesthetic appeal of the streetscape. However, their roots can damage the concrete.

As they stabilize the soil, they can also exert immense pressure on surrounding structures. It is why selecting the right plant is essential to preserving sidewalk integrity.

How Do Plants Impact Sidewalks?

Improper plant selection can cause structural damage to sidewalks and lead to costly repairs, safety hazards, and even legal liabilities.

Tree roots naturally grow outward in search of water and nutrients. If planted too close to sidewalks, they can push upward or sideways, causing cracks, lifting slabs, and creating uneven surfaces.

Some plants retain water excessively. It can lead to soil expansion and contraction. This cycle damages the foundation of sidewalks and makes them prone to settling or sinking.

Certain plants might destabilize the soil with their root structure and lead to erosion. It can weaken the sidewalk’s support system and cause the slabs to sink.

Consequences of Poor Plant Choices

Not matching the compatibility of plants with the soil and sidewalk’s infrastructure can lead to various challenges. The main issue is the safety risk. Invasive roots can cause cracks and make the surface uneven.

These damages can lead to trip-and-fall accidents, especially for pedestrians, children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. Fixing these damages is costly and can be a hassle for you. Moreover, if the problematic plants are not removed during the repairs, they can be a continuous threat to your sidewalks.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Plants

To prevent sidewalk damage and greenery to your property’s infrastructure, it’s essential to consider the following factors when selecting plants:

Root Structure

Opt for trees and plants with deep, non-invasive root systems that grow vertically rather than horizontally. Species with shallow roots are more likely to disrupt sidewalks.

For example, trees like oak, maple, and willow are notorious for their aggressive root systems and should be avoided near sidewalks.

Size and Growth Rate

Consider the mature size of the plant. A small sapling might seem harmless initially, but over time, larger species can become problematic.

Choose slow-growing species, as their roots develop gradually, reducing the risk of sudden damage.

Water Needs

Drought-tolerant plants are ideal for urban settings as they require less watering, minimizing the risk of water retention that can destabilize sidewalks.

Soil Type

Certain plants thrive in specific soil types. Matching the plant with the soil can prevent excessive root spread caused by nutrient deficiency.

Local Climate

Native plants are better adapted to the local climate and are less likely to damage the ecosystem or infrastructure.

Distance from Sidewalks

Maintain adequate spacing between plants and sidewalks. Consult with local arborists to determine the appropriate planting distance based on the species.

On average, the distance can depend upon the height of the trees.

• Trees up to 30 feet tall should be installed 3 to 4 feet away from sidewalks.
• Trees upto 30 to 50 feet tall should be planted 5 to 6 feet away.
• Trees more than 50 feet tall should be planted at least 8 feet from sidewalks.

Best Plant Choices for Sidewalk Integrity

Here are some plant recommendations that create the right balance between greenery and structural safety:

Small Trees with Non-Invasive Roots

Crape Myrtle

Japanese Maple

Amur Maple

Shrubs and Ground Covers

Lavender

Juniper

Periwinkle

Native Grasses and Ornamentals

Blue Fescue

Little Bluestem

Fountain Grass

Additional Things to Consider Before Installing Sidewalks

Use Root Barriers: During new installations, sidewalk experts recommend integrating root barriers to direct root growth away from the structure. These physical barriers help prevent potential damage.

Add Tree Grates and Planters: Raised planters or tree grates can restrict root growth while still allowing plants to flourish.

Regular Inspections: Periodically inspect sidewalks and surrounding plants for early signs of root intrusion or soil erosion. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent costly repairs.

Conclusion

Choosing the right plants near sidewalks is an investment in their longevity. By selecting species with non-invasive roots and considering factors like growth rate and water needs, you can ensure that there is no harm to your sidewalks. Taking professional help in plant selection and installation can help you avoid these issues in the future. So make your sidewalks beautiful while ensuring their safety and accessibility.