Plant This, Not That: Tree Edition
As a realtor, I spend a lot of time driving through Seattle-area neighborhoods — and I always notice the trees. Some front yards look like something out of a storybook, while others are clearly struggling with mossy grass or cracked walkways from overgrown roots.
Now, I’m not a professional landscaper (and definitely not a master gardener), but I’ve picked up a few tips over the years — and I love passing along things I’ve learned that might help you love your home even more.
If you’re thinking about planting a tree or two this season, here are some great options that do well in our rainy, moss-prone corner of the world… plus a few that are better left at the nursery.
Japanese Maple
These small trees are perfect for front yards, especially if you’re short on space. They come in so many beautiful colors, and they’re pretty low-maintenance once established.
Why locals love it: It handles our wet winters like a champ, adds curb appeal year-round, and grows slowly (translation: less yard work for you).
Skip this one:
Silver Maple – It grows fast, but the roots are notorious for cracking sidewalks and choking out lawns. Better for big open spaces — not suburban yards.
Dogwood
Dogwoods bloom beautifully in the spring, and they don’t get too big. They’re happy in a little shade and tend to play nicely with nearby plants.
Why it works here: It’s well-behaved, pretty, and won’t take over your lawn.
Skip this one:
Bradford Pear – It blooms, yes, but it’s brittle and often loses limbs in storms. Plus, it’s considered invasive in some areas.
Serviceberry
This one’s a little hidden gem — a native tree that gives you white blooms in spring, berries in summer, and a burst of fall color.
Why I love it: Native plants usually need less water and maintenance, and this one also feeds local birds and pollinators.
Skip this one:
Leyland Cypress – These grow super fast and seem like a good privacy screen… until they get too tall, too wide, and too prone to root rot.
Paperbark Maple
If you want something a little different, this tree has cinnamon-colored peeling bark (it sounds weird but looks gorgeous), and it stays compact.
Why it’s a smart pick: It’s tidy, unique, and low-impact on your lawn and nearby plants.
Skip this one:
Lombardy Poplar – It gives quick coverage but it’s messy, short-lived, and those roots? Yikes. Hard pass for most yards.
Final Thought:
I’m not here to sell you a shovel — just hoping to save you from future headaches! The right tree can add so much value and beauty to your property, but it really does make a difference to pick something that suits the Seattle climate. If you’re not sure what would thrive in your yard, local nurseries are amazing at helping you narrow it down.