planting a conifer

[Pete_zone_5b-6a]

hey,
can i plant a douglas fir, leyland cypress, incense cedar, western larch or would these trees undermine the house's foundation? Otherwise im open to suggestions for a small tree.
thanks,
Pete

[pruninggal]

I'm assuming from your e-mail that you want to plant something close to a house? If so, I wouldn't plant any tree close to a house. When selecting plants for near a house, you less have to worry about the foundation than how it will need to be pruned in 10-50 years. If it's too close, one side may start touching the house and need to be pruned incorrectly to keep it away.

There are lots of gorgeous small trees for all regions - let us know where you are.

[Pete_zone_5b-6a]

hey,
I am sorry. I forgot to say these would be 10 to 15 feet away from the house. I live in southeast Denver. Thanks for paying attention to the post.

[Newt]

Hi Pete,
Ten to 15 feet from your house is VERY close. I wouldn't plant ANY tree closer than 20', though it is said that 15' is acceptable for some trees. All the trees you mention will be much too large for that site. They are all evergreen except for the larch. Are you looking for something evergreen?

This is the best site I know for researching trees once you get some suggestions.
http://hort.ifas.ufl.edu/trees/index.htm

One tree that comes to mind that might work would be the dogwood and you would have berries for the birds. Another possiblity would be Cotinus coggygria 'Royal Purple' - 'Royal purple' smoketree. I have a Fringe tree - Chionanthus virginicus - that you might like. It gets lovely white flowers in the spring. It's a very slow growing tree. The males don't have berries but do have more flowers. These are all hardy in your zone. If you would like pictures of any of these trees, go to www.google.com and try using the botanical name. You can also click on 'Images' and get pictures.

Newt