I want to plant a specimen tree but I am concerned about the underground pipes. Are there some tree varieties that are better for this?
All trees and shrubbery should be placed well away from underground pipes. Sewerage pipes in particular are the most likely to be invaded by trees and shrubbery. As these pipes are not pressurized, a small crack or fault can quickly attract roots resulting in a large breach and failure. As a tree grows, the roots expand and thicken which creates stress on the surrounding soil. This stress puts added compression on nearby pipes, which may result in broken joints or large blockages. A few of the most problematic varieties are ficus, melaleuca, paper bark, dracaenas, rubber trees and tipuanas.
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