Native Plants

Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?

A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.

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Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

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Thursday - August 16, 2012

From: Munroe Falls, OH
Region: Midwest
Topic: Trees
Title: A tap-rooted tree for Munroe Falls, OH?
Answered by: Joe Marcus

QUESTION:

Hello.. We need to find a fast growing shade tree which has a tap root or a heart root system. No surface roots please. We live in Munroe Falls, Ohio which I believe is Zone 5. Let us know your thoughts.

ANSWER:

We're sorry to say there is no tree that meets your criteria. A number of tree species are deep-rooted or have tap roots, but none have no surface roots. Also, in general, fast-growing trees are more shallow-rooted.