how close to house

I am planning on cutting out a bed from my front lawn in front of the house and thought one of the things I would like there is a small connifer. Firstly any suggestions as to a suitable tree which will not grow more than 6 to 8 feet in height or one which is slow growing and does not mind being kept at that height. Secondly would it be ok to plant within a few feet of the house? Thanks Scott

 

I think a dwarf conifer would be fine near the house. They are, by definition, slow growing though ...

I think Junipers are nice (if you want something upright), but the horizontal ones can be fun.

We had a couple of lovely ones at a previous house - sort of blue-ish tinge, pretty sure they were Junipers. Had some very fancy variety name - which I have long since forgotten I'm afraid. That's going to bug me all day now ...

 

I would go for a Thuja, possibly Orientalis or Occidentalis Rheingold, they don't grow too fast or get too tall. As Kristen saya there are many Junipers to choose from too.

 

Hi Scotty,

I'd shy away from conifers if I were you - you have the intention of keeping it trimmed but believe me, they soon run amok. Also, the term 'dwarf conifer' is a bit of a misnomer. My parents planted a dwarf specimen and it grew almost as tall as the house and I had to fell it for them. If you'd really like to plant a coniferous tree then Kristen's idea of a juniper would be a good idea. As for planting next to a house, well, there are certain factors to consider including, light, space and ground conditions. Clay soil shrinks when the water has been absorbed in it by trees which can cause subsidence - so trees in this scenario need to be planted away from any major structures.