Trees to plant under the power lines

When planting a tree be sure to look up. Trees might be small when they are purchased but they need a lot of space to become healthy adults. When trees and power lines come into conflict trees end up hurting from repeated pruning that leads to weak branches and early death. It is a sad look when half of a trees crown has been sheared off by the utility company. Know the mature full canopy size of trees and shrubs before planting near power lines or any other structure.

Some of my favorite small trees and shrubs and their mature height:

Witchazel 8-12'

Red Buckeye 10-15'

Rough-leaved Dogwood 10-15'

Wild Plum 10-15'

Wafer Ash 10-15'

Carolina Buckthorn 10-15'

Smooth Sumac 10-15'

Southern Black Haw 10-15'

Serviceberry 10-20'

Redbud 10-20'

Fringetree 10-20'

Many shrubs will become as wide across as tall so plant them far enough away from structures and each other so they don’t get crowded. Often power right of ways are close to the street or back fence. Branches invading the street or the neighbors property are likely to be mistreated which could weaken the tree from infections.

The power lines in front of my house are only 10’ off the ground and 5’ from the street so it is not a good spot to plant shrubs. I have planted beauty berry and hydrangeas but no taller shrubs. The neighbors have a Bradford pear under the lines that had been cut into the Vulcan salute to allow the lines through. I have no sympathy for Bradford pears but I pity the car who parks under them when the poor branch structure gives and the tree splits down the middle.

When managing the area along one of the larger power right of ways choose plants underneath that are short and aggressive. Most of the time all the plants occurring under power lines are exotic invasives like bush honeysuckle and tall fescue. Identify the plants to find out if it is a weed or native and don't spray the sumac. The native sumac shrubs are well suited to the harsh conditions under power lines and will respout if they get mowed on occasion.

Before planting in a right of way be sure to have clear communication with the utility about the intent of the planting and new maintenance schedule before getting started. There is nothing more heartbreaking then finally seeing a planting get established only to have an uninformed employee come by and cut it down or spray it with herbicide.

Also, never top a tree!