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I have been trying to get my husband to take out the shrubs that line the edges of my home. He wants to keep them because a) they protect the paint and siding from direct sunlight on the south side, b) they are green and lush, and c) they conceal the front porch enough that people won’t be tempted to steal packages off our porch. The Wall Street Journal just published an article that supports my argument. Here is is, in a nutshell:
Key Takeaways
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Foundation-Risky Landscaping: Planting shrubs and hedges close to your home’s foundation may seem charming—but it can cause serious damage over time. Root systems retain moisture that can lead to mildew, moisture intrusion, blocked vents, and even invite termites to nest behind the façade.
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Vulnerability to Wildfire: In some regions, dense vegetation against the foundation also increases the home’s risk of wildfire damage.
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Expert Solutions: The columnist consulted with horticultural and design experts, who recommend thoughtful alternatives—like planting with proper setbacks or choosing landscape designs that minimize foundation and fire risk.
Practical Recommendations
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Avoid placing shrubs or hedges directly next to your foundation to reduce moisture buildup and enhance airflow.
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Leave a buffer zone between plantings and the house to discourage pests and moisture damage.
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Consult professionals or landscape designers to select foundation-friendly and fire-safe plantings.
Note the photo above: This builder, in an attempt to add curb appeal, planted shrubs that are pretty much guaranteed to cause problems in the future!
I read this and wanted to know what a good buffer zone would be. The internet is full of advice–all different. And the main problem I have with any of the suggestions is that when someone plants something 2 or 3 feet from the foundation (as many sites suggest), as years go by the shrub gets bigger and bigger, roots growing closer and closer to your foundation. So, my inexpert advice? Put in plants that don’t get big with age. If you insist on sturdier bushes, plant them so that even their branches at maturity don’t touch the house. This means at least 5 feet or so depending on the shrub or tree you choose.
