Seeking feedback on these trees to replace cherry trees

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SoManyProjects Seattle, WA Apr 08, 2015

We are sadly removing three large cherry trees in front of our house as they are destroying our sidewalk. Because these trees are in the parking trip (technically owned by the city), we must plant new trees to replace them in a reasonable amount of time (and the city defines reasonable of course!).

The planting strip is only 4' wide, which is insufficient for our majestic cherry trees. The city arborist recommended five other trees that are appropriate for a 4' area and that will have nice spring blooms and fall color. Does anyone here have advice in favor/against any of these five trees? Are there any alternate trees you would recommend? I am located in Western Washington. Thank you for your thoughts!

1. Amelanchier x grandiflora ‘Autumn Brilliance’ – Autumn Brilliance Serviceberry
2. Lagerstoemia indica ‘Tuscarora’ – Tuscarora Crape Myrtle
3. Pyrus calleryana ‘Jaczam’ – Jack Pear
4. Magnolia x loebneri ‘Dr. Merrill’ – Dr. Merrill Loebner Magnolia
5. Chionanthus retusus – Chinese Fringe Tree

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Diana_K Contra Costa County, CA(Zone 9b) Apr 08, 2015

Well, you keep on researching the others, but the Crape Myrtle is a well behaved tree as far as not tearing up the side walk.

Install a root barrier along the sides where it is closest to the curb and the sidewalk. The roots can spread sideways, and they are allowed to grow under the root barrier, but they won't grow really close to the surface under the paved surfaces.

To get the roots going down deep you may need to water them right. If the rains do not take care of them, the set the hose near each tree and let it run slowly for a long time. This will deep soak the area where you want the roots to grow. Or you can use a deep root waterer. This is a tube with a sharp point and holes at the bottom that you attach to the hose. You plunge this into the soil and send the water down deep.

When the trees are first planted their roots are no bigger than the container they were in. They will need water in that space and the original soil right next to the container's volume.
As the roots spread they will need the water farther out, away from the trunk.

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