Quote Originally Posted by iris lilies View Post
Silver maples are qualitatively different for purposes of suburban living. Sure, that is a human centric value. We are part of the civilized human race whether we want to feel that way or not. Improving our environment with appropriate selection of mother nature‘s offerings is just common sense.


Each time you and Jane mow your lawn or weed your place you destroy tiny tree seedlings. Clear cutting on a tiny scale! Haha.
My son is trying to decide on what to accept from a menu of services the lawn care guy gave him. I advised him on the minimum, no "weed and feed" no grub control, no broadleaf or crabgrass control. Make sure the blade is 3 inches high and do not bag the clippings. Let the neighbors hate me and my family. My son tells me the kids sometimes literally eat the grass, so I'm more concerned about them and the pollinators who will thank me for the dandelions and clover.

Site selection is very important when introducing plantings for sure.. I agree with you there. But in general both silver maples and sugar maples absorb CO2, provide shade and habitat for birds, and are so much more attractive than a parking lot aesthetic.