What killed my tree and what to plant next?

PamSinha

Hi all,
I am very sad because a very large 100 year old Red Oak on my property line has died. We're not sure exactly what killed it, but there was plenty of opportunity. Within the course of a year, an alley on one side was paved that had been gravel, two houses were torn down on either side and 2 new houses built, and a concrete driveway was poured on either side (though there had been a big slab of concrete there already). We also have been having a summer drought. AND, our neighbors had a tree guy trim the tree in the middle of the summer/drought too. (It is half on our side and half on theirs. They said he only cut the dead stuff, but our aborist said not to touch it until the fall.) All of sudden, all the leaves dried out. Do trees have limited years of life, or did one of the many factors most likely kill it? (And if so, which one???)
Next question...what can we plant there now? We want another big tree because it was great for shade. But I'm worried with the alley paved and the driveways, there is limited space for roots and water. (There's about 8 feet by 6 feet of dirt, and some additional non-paved strips here and there of about 3 feet wide by pretty long.) Any suggestions on the next tree (if any? Our neighbors suggest clumping bamboo). We have hurricane's here in Houston so it would have to be a sturdy tree.
Thanks!
Pam

treeshaveneeds

All trees have a limited life, some are longer than others. Red Oak is usually around 150 to 250. I would guess that the numerous goings-ons drastically affected the water drainage patterns, and along with probable cut roots, and coverings of soil to absorb rain, the tree could not make it. Too Bad !!

For the small amount of space you have, the best tree is likely to be an invasive tree. While I am positive, few (prob no) other members would suggest it, a tree like Tree-of-Heaven (Ailanthus altissima), Manitoba Maple (Acer negundo), or Silver Maple (Acer saccharinum) (need to check zone tolerances) should be selected that can tolerate poor growing conditions, and can grow relatively quickly. I am sure people in texas could suggest local trees that would also fit the requirements.

Garry Brockley

Not a bad selection apart from the Alianthus altissima they are a potentially a very large tree with a very invasive growth pattern, they will send suckers all around the garden and seedlings can carry a long distance and will grow in all of the neighbours yards and become a real problem if not poisoned, also contact with tree of heaven bark and leaves may cause dermatitis in some people.

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treeshaveneeds

Fair enough Galbee, but wouldn't that ensure the tree's survival, and the owner's would be sure to have a tree for some time to come. Method in madness.

PamSinha

Galbee and Treeshaveneeds,
I appreciate for your input and advice on next tree! We will run these by local tree folks as well.
Thanks,
Pam

TreeSpecialist

Red oaks are especially sensitive to root damage. Even more so during the summer months.

Hypoxylon canker has killed hundred of thousands of red oaks this year around Central Texas.

The replacements recommended in previous posts would all be terrible for your area. Go to:

Texas Tree Selector

for ideas suited to your area of the state.

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