Want to grow a tree in your yard? Find out what you can or cannot do.

Cultivating a tree in the backyard is an act that goes beyond aesthetics: it is about creating shade, refreshing the projects, supporting biodiversity, and even enhancing property value. However, before choosing the species and starting the planting, it is essential to understand best practices and, above all, the limitations imposed by legislation. After all, trees are not just decorative elements, but also part of the environmental balance of cities. The decision to plant or even remove a tree involves technical, spatial, and legal factors that are not always clear to residents. Therefore, understanding what can or cannot be done is essential to avoid future problems – both for the health of the plant and for the safety of the house and surroundings!

What to observe before planting a tree

Before bringing a tree into the backyard, it is important to analyze the available space, the incidence of sunlight, and the proximity to buildings and pipes. Many species grow expansively and can compromise sidewalks, walls, or underground networks. In addition, it is necessary to think about the size of the tree. Large-growing species, like fig trees or jacarandas, require large areas, while small backyards need medium or small trees, such as pitanga or jabuticaba. This choice ensures that the tree develops healthily and without causing structural damage.

What the legislation says about trees in residential areas

The Brazilian environmental legislation is quite clear when it comes to trees: none can be cut down without prior authorization from the public authority! This applies to both specimens in public areas and trees located in private backyards. Municipalities are generally responsible for regulating these authorizations, which can vary depending on the species, the risk presented, and the environmental impact of the removal. In many municipalities, cutting down a tree without permission can result in high fines. Therefore, before any intervention, it is essential to consult local environmental agencies.

Suitable trees for small backyards

Choosing species compatible with the size of the backyard avoids headaches in the future. Small fruit trees, such as pomegranate, mulberry, or lime trees, are highly recommended options. In addition to not taking up much space, they have the advantage of producing fruit and attracting birds. Other good choices include ornamental species such as reseda and dwarf manaca, which enchant with their intense flowering and adapt well to urban areas due to their less aggressive roots.

An important point at this time is the minimum distance of the tree from buildings. In small backyards, a distance of at least two meters is recommended to avoid roots or canopies interfering with walls and roofs. This simple care ensures both the health of the tree and the preservation of the house.

When is it allowed to prune or remove a tree

Pruning is allowed in maintenance cases, when done adequately and, preferably, guided by an agronomist or biologist. Total removal is only authorized under specific conditions, usually when the tree poses an imminent risk of falling, is sick with no chance of recovery, or hinders properly licensed works. It is worth noting that, in many cities, when removal is authorized, the homeowner must compensate for the cut by planting another tree in a location indicated by the environmental agency. This measure aims to maintain ecological balance and reinforce the importance of urban greening. CASACOR Publisher is a creator of exclusive content, developed by the CASACOR Technology team based on the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Yeska Coelho.