What are the best trees to use as a buffer between my house and the road?

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Question What are the best trees to use as a buffer between my house and the road?

Answer By definition, a buffer is an area that helps to reduce the impact of an adjacent land use. Buffer zones may be used by a homeowner, a homeowners association, a municipality, a county, a state or even a Federal agency.

Municipalities, counties, states and Federal agencies typically use buffer zones to protect a body of water (stream, swamp, river, etc…). Usually called riparian buffers, these zones are simply strips of land containing trees, shrubs or other vegetation. They function as filters which remove nutrients, pesticides, sediment and other substances which collectively are called “pollutants.” These buffers also reduce erosion, moderate storm water runoff and serve as wildlife habitats.

Counties, municipalities, homeowners associations and homeowners also use buffer zones to reduce noise pollution, control traffic, and provide security. Whether it is realized or not, plants remove air pollution, produce oxygen, and reduce urban temperatures (by providing shade).

Of course the primary reason people want a buffer zone is to block visibility. Typically we refer to "view blocking" plants as "screen plants", because they "screen" out unwanted views. Screen plants can be used to block views in or out of your property. For example, screen plants can provide privacy around your hot tub, swimming pool, workshop, meditation garden, deck or patio. Screen plants can also be used to hide things on your property like dog pens, chicken coops, junk cars, ac/heater units, liquor stills, and Eric Rudolph’s summer home.

Here are a few helpful hints when planning a buffer zone. First, plant at least two or more different types of plants. Avoiding monoculture (using one type of plant) situations will surely help with pest problems. Second, plant at least two rows of plants. This prevents gaping holes in your screen should one or two plants die. Third, avoid planting in straight rows whenever possible. All three of these suggestions help prevent viewers from noticing differences in growth rates, pests from spreading quickly, and wind from laying the plants down. Lastly, take soil samples before planting. Variations in pH and nutrient levels are often reflected in long rows of trees. They appear as dips or rises in the heights and sizes of the trees.

In the past, the two most common plants used for screening were "Redtips" (or Photinia) and "Leyland Cypress". Both of these plants grow really fast and have pretty growth characteristics. However, they are both very prone to insect and disease problems. When these plants grow taller than 12 feet high, they are extremely difficult to treat with pesticides.

Fortunately, there are numerous other plants that can be used. A list of more pest-free trees includes: Eastern red cedar, holly trees (many species and varieties), cryptomeria, magnolia and cherry laurel. There are many more trees and shrubs which can be used as screen plants. I will be glad to send you a list if you are interested in stopping the wind or peering eyes. For more information about buffers, check out http://www.riparianbuffers.umd.edu/fact.html or http://www.chesapeakebay.net/pubs/Buffer_Width_Brief_12_2003.pdf If you don’t have internet access, then call 910-893-7533 or email me at gpierce@harnett.org

Whenever possible try to design your landscape screen or buffer so it serves multiple purposes. At the same time, keep in mind your local Planning Department probably doesn’t want to hear about your property’s Feng Shui.

Gary L. Pierce

Horticulture Agent

Harnett County