We have some large old pine trees between our driveway and the neighbor's that will be cut down soon. What can we grow in the spot after they are gone?
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We are in southeast Michigan, zone 5-6 ish, and the site will be in full sun. Fruit/berry suggestions would be a plus.
The soil under well established pine trees is usually quite acidic. It is helpful to do a ph test on your soil so you know just what you are dealing with. If you are wanting to plant right away you will need to plant something that can handle the acidic soil. Blueberries, azaleas, and hydrangea all like acidic soil. Also a number of nut trees like walnut and pecan. If you are thinking to plant things like apples, peaches, cherries, etc. then you will need to let the soil rest and treat it to adjust the ph levels to where they need to be.
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Also do a little research to figure out what variety of the fruit grows best in your area and the soil ph levels that work best along with the proper treatment for the desired trees/plants and adjust it accordingly for best results. This information can usually be had for free from your local extension office or from a local college research team that is acquainted with the type of trees that you are interested in.
Service berry tree is a great option. First the leaves grow every spring, then it also grows small white flowers every spring too. Once those die off the berries start to grown. (Yes you can eat them after washing). About late May early June they are ready to eat.
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Little advice the animals love these berries too (birds, squirrels & rabbits). In the fall the leaves turn orange, red & yellow colored. My tree is a great size. My tree is now 10 years old & still going strong producing the flowers & fruit.
cybergrannie Gold Feedback Medal for All Time! 949 Feedbacks
January 25, 20180 found this helpful
Having pine trees (complete with stumps and clean-up) removed is a big job and will probably require some new (or old) soil to help you in planting new trees.
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There are several things you will probably want to think about before you decide on what trees to plant.
Pine trees are usually thinner (and have a smaller canopy) than other types of trees so be sure your new trees will have enough distance from your driveway and also from your neighbor's property.
Just be sure to consider what your trees will look like 10-20 years from now and this means you need to consider the height and canopy measurements of a full grown tree.
Berries can sometimes mean more birds and bird droppings can present another problem.
I would suggest you contact your county extension office as they have all the information you will need about what trees would be suitable for your situation.
Here is a link that has some information and also a link to help you find your local extension office.
