It is said that the Eucalyptus tree is one of the most useful trees in the world. A tall, water-loving tree, Eucalyptus is one of the fastest growing trees in the world, reaching heights of between 300-480 feet.

These trees have been used for everything from paper, to mulch, shade, fuel, hardwoods, wind breaking, malaria fighting and numerous other medicinal tasks. Its extensive root system absorbs vast amounts of water. It is due to this phenomenon that it has been intentionally planted in marshy, malaria infested areas in an attempt to dry up and purify the soil and air.

However, in the photo above, this particular one is likely doing much more harm than good; once again, a maturing tree has taken root and slowly pushed an adjacent house out of the way, and probably did not even much notice that the house was there.

While I am not an advocate of eliminating a perfectly good tree, this homeowner has to either do just that or sit idly by as his house is further shoved off of its footings, a tough choice indeed.

If you plan to plant any trees, do a little research to learn about the appropriate distance from other features of your property (such as the house itself for one!).

DO plant trees, and lots of them, but NOT so close to the home that they later have to be taken out and then the foundation needs correction as well.