Missouri’s diverse landscape is home to a wide variety of trees, many of which add beauty, shade, and value to residential properties. However, not every tree is a good neighbor. Some species create constant messes, drop hazardous debris, or pose structural risks that make them more trouble than they’re worth. Understanding which trees can become problematic—and when removal is the best option—can save time, money, and frustration.
The Sweetgum Tree: A Spiky Menace
The American sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua) is one of Missouri’s most notorious yard nuisances. While its star-shaped leaves turn brilliant shades of red and orange in the fall, the tree’s round, spiky seed pods—commonly called “gumballs”—are a year-round headache.
These hard, spiny balls litter lawns, sidewalks, and driveways, making mowing difficult and walking hazardous. They can damage lawn equipment and cause painful falls. Because sweetgums grow large and drop thousands of gumballs each year, many homeowners eventually decide that removal is the only practical solution.
Black Walnut Trees: Valuable but Problematic
Black walnut trees (Juglans nigra) are native to Missouri and prized for their high-quality wood and edible nuts. However, they can be a nightmare in residential settings. The heavy nuts fall with force, denting cars, damaging roofs, and posing a danger to anyone underneath.
Additionally, black walnuts produce a chemical called juglone, which is toxic to many plants. This makes it difficult to maintain gardens or lawns beneath their canopy. While these trees have ecological and economic value, their placement near homes or play areas often leads to removal.
Silver Maples: Fast-Growing but Fragile
Silver maples (Acer saccharinum) are common in older Missouri neighborhoods because they grow quickly and provide ample shade. Unfortunately, their rapid growth comes at a cost. The wood is weak and prone to splitting during storms, leading to broken limbs and property damage.
Their shallow root systems can also invade sewer lines, crack sidewalks, and disrupt foundations. For homeowners tired of constant cleanup and repair, removing a silver maple and replacing it with a sturdier species can be a wise investment.
Bradford Pears: Beautiful but Brittle
Once a popular ornamental tree, the Bradford pear (Pyrus calleryana) has fallen out of favor across Missouri. Its spring blossoms are attractive, but the tree’s structure is inherently weak. As it matures, the narrow branch angles cause limbs to split easily during wind or ice storms.
Bradford pears are also invasive, spreading aggressively into natural areas and crowding out native species. Many municipalities now recommend or even require their removal.
So, When Should You Take Them Out?
- Tree removal should be considered when:
- The tree poses a safety hazard due to weak structure or disease.
- Falling debris creates ongoing maintenance or safety issues.
- Roots are damaging property or infrastructure.
- The species is invasive or environmentally harmful.
Consulting a certified arborist can help determine whether pruning, treatment, or full removal is the best course of action.
Better Tree Alternatives for Missouri Yards
For homeowners looking to replace problematic trees, consider native or well-adapted species that offer beauty without the mess or risk:
- Red maple (Acer rubrum) – Stronger wood and vibrant fall color.
- Bald cypress (Taxodium distichum) – Tolerant of wet soils and long-lived.
- Serviceberry (Amelanchier arborea) – Attractive flowers and edible berries.
- Eastern redbud (Cercis canadensis) – Compact size and stunning spring blooms.
Conclusion
While trees are an essential part of Missouri’s natural charm, not every species belongs in a residential yard. Sweetgums, black walnuts, silver maples, and Bradford pears often cause more problems than they solve. Removing these troublesome trees and replacing them with stronger, cleaner, and more sustainable options can enhance both the safety and beauty of any property.
If this is something you are considering, give us a call at B&B Tree and Landscapes. We would be happy to come out and take a look.
