Question From: L. Francis - CALIFORNIA
Q: ...I am looking for an attractive shade tree for our front yard in the San Fernando Valley near L.A., CA and am considering the London Plane tree. You suggested Bloodgood, Columbia or Liberty as good options, which are more resistant to diseases they would normally be suseptible to and also tolerant to cultural conditions. Also I've read about Metzam and wonder how that fares compared to these. A large nursery in our area says it's difficult to get some of these, Columbia in particular, which looks like one of the best options to me. I'd like to see the trees in person to choose from and am hesitant to have to special order a tree from them and then be stuck with one I'm not happy with. Do you know of any nurseries with large selections that we can see the trees to choose from? Also, of the above mentioned varieties, which do you think would be the best for our area, or would there be a better choice than a London Plane? What distance do you recommend planting a London Plane from the house and walkways, and what time of year is best to plant? I appreciate any information you can provide. Thank you.
A:
I live in Michigan and am not able to recommend trees that will do well in CA. I recommend you contact a certified arborist for recommendations. He/she will be able to tell you what trees are doing well in your area and which ones are problematic. I'd also do some checking at local independents nurseries and garden centers that specialize in trees and shrubs. Best and Happy Yardening, Nancy.
