12 Great Trees to Plant in St. Louis After Removal

If you’ve recently had a tree removed and want to replace it, choosing the right species is key. Some of the best trees to plant after removal in the St. Louis area include the Chinkapin Oak, Eastern Redbud, Serviceberry, Dogwood, and Blackgum. These trees are well-suited to Missouri’s climate, are less prone to disease, and work well in both city yards and suburban lots.

This is just a quick sample. We’ve included a full list of recommended trees for St. Louis further down in the article, with details on why each one works.

Not every tree will thrive in the same spot where another was removed. Choosing the wrong one can lead to long-term problems with root systems, spacing, or maintenance. A little planning now can save you time and money later. We also cover some of the worst trees to replant in the St. Louis area.

Need help picking the right tree for your yard? Request a free estimate and we’ll walk you through your options.

Why Tree Selection Matters After Removal

Choosing the right tree to plant after removal is about more than just picking something that looks good. The condition of your soil, the size of the space, and what was previously planted there all play a role in how well a new tree will grow.

Some species leave behind aggressive root systems that compete with new plantings. Others may have been removed due to disease or poor fit, which means replanting the same type could cause the same issues all over again. St. Louis has a wide range of soil conditions, from compacted urban lots to soft, shaded yards, so the right choice depends on where you’re planting and what you want long-term.

The goal is a healthy tree that fits the space, supports your landscape, and doesn’t lead to more problems later. A thoughtful replacement gives the new tree the best chance to take root and thrive.

Why Tree Selection Matters After Removal

Planting a new tree is an investment, and the choice you make now can affect your yard for decades.

If a tree was removed because it was too large, too close to your house, or constantly dropping limbs, replacing it with the same species probably isn’t the right move. The same goes for trees that were taken down due to disease or pest issues.

A few things to think about before replanting:

• Is the soil compacted or disrupted from the removal?
• Did the old tree leave behind an aggressive root system?
• Do you want something low-maintenance this time around?
• Will this tree still be a good fit when it’s fully grown?

St. Louis properties can vary a lot. Some are tight city lots, others are wide suburban yards, and many have sloped or shaded areas. The right type of tree depends on how much room you have, how much sunlight the area gets, and what kind of long-term growth you’re comfortable managing.

Choosing carefully now gives your new tree a better chance to thrive and avoid problems down the line.

Can You Plant a Tree in the Same Spot as the One Removed?

Sometimes, but not always. In most cases, it’s better to plant a few feet away from the original location.

When a tree is removed, it often leaves behind:

• A dense root system that can block the new tree’s roots from spreading
• Compacted soil from heavy equipment or the previous tree’s growth
• A spot where nutrients have already been depleted

If a stump was ground down, there may also be wood chips mixed into the soil, which can slow down new growth or affect drainage. Some trees, especially fast-growing species, also leave behind small roots that continue to compete underground long after the trunk is gone.

Best approach:

If you want to replant near the same area, shift a few feet to one side, dig a fresh hole, and amend the soil with compost or topsoil. That gives your new tree a clean start.

How Soon Can You Replant After Tree Removal?

In many cases, you can plant a new tree right away. But it depends on a few factors, including the condition of the soil, the size of the tree that was removed, and why it had to come down in the first place.

You can usually replant immediately if:

• The tree was healthy and removed for space, sunlight, or landscaping reasons
• The stump was removed or ground down
• The soil is in good shape and drains well

You may want to wait or amend the area if:

• The tree was removed due to disease or root rot
• The soil is full of leftover roots or wood chips
• You notice standing water or poor drainage after removal

If you’re unsure, a quick inspection can help determine whether the area is ready or needs some prep. Replanting in the right conditions gives your new tree a better start and supports long-term health.

Best Trees to Plant in St. Louis After Removal

There are dozens of trees that grow well in the St. Louis area, but not all of them are ideal for replacing one that was recently removed. The best choices tend to be native, disease-resistant, and suited to the space and soil you’re working with.

While we can suggest popular trees that grow well in Missouri, the best choice often depends on your specific yard, soil conditions, and long-term goals. We recommend consulting with a local tree expert to find the right fit for your property.

Here are some of the best options that you might want to consider:

Chinkapin Oak

A strong native oak that handles a wide range of soil types, including the clay-heavy soils found in many St. Louis yards. It grows slowly and develops into a beautiful shade tree without the brittle structure or maintenance problems common with faster-growing oaks.

Shumard Oak

One of the best oaks for urban planting. Shumard Oaks grow faster than many other hardwoods and handle compacted soil, heat, and occasional drought. They offer bold fall color and strong branching, making them a reliable shade tree replacement.

Swamp White Oak

Ideal for areas with poor drainage or heavy clay soil. This oak is native to Missouri and thrives in wet spots where other trees struggle. It offers great canopy coverage, long lifespan, and a rugged root system that helps prevent erosion.

Eastern Redbud

A smaller native tree that produces bright pink flowers in early spring. Redbuds are perfect for residential yards, especially in smaller spaces or as ornamental highlights. They grow well in both sun and partial shade and won’t overwhelm the area with roots.

Serviceberry

Serviceberries work well in urban and suburban yards alike. These small trees bloom early, attract birds with their berries, and provide beautiful fall color. They’re often used as a replacement for ornamental flowering trees that have aged out or failed.

Flowering Dogwood

A classic choice for Missouri landscapes. Dogwoods are native, relatively low-maintenance, and do well in partial shade. Their layered structure and spring blossoms add visual interest without growing too large or causing root issues.

Blackgum (Tupelo)

Known for its vibrant red fall color and strong central trunk. Blackgums grow slowly but steadily, tolerate wet and dry soils, and rarely suffer from pests or disease. They’re a great long-term choice for replacing a tree that was removed due to instability.

American Hornbeam (Ironwood)

Compact and shade-tolerant, Hornbeams are a great fit for side yards, wooded lots, or spots where space is tight. This native species is extremely durable and works well in areas that previously held a tree with an aggressive root system.

Bald Cypress

A unique, fast-growing native that sheds its soft needles in fall. Bald Cypress trees tolerate poor drainage and occasional flooding, making them perfect for planting near creeks, low areas, or the back edge of a yard. Their shape stays narrow and clean as they grow.

River Birch

Ideal for wetter spots or yards with drainage problems. River Birch grows quickly and features distinctive peeling bark that adds year-round interest. This tree is often used to replace fast-growing but short-lived species like Silver Maple.

Sweetbay Magnolia

Smaller and more compact than the Southern Magnolia, but still offers glossy green leaves and fragrant, creamy white flowers. Sweetbay Magnolia prefers moist, well-drained soil and does well in partially shaded areas. A great choice for front yards or soft focal points.

American Linden (Basswood)

A large, stately shade tree with heart-shaped leaves and sweet-smelling flowers that attract pollinators. Lindens grow tall and offer strong canopy coverage, making them a great replacement for larger trees that were removed due to storm damage or disease.

Trees to Avoid Replanting in St. Louis

Not every tree that grows well in Missouri is a smart choice to replant after removal. Some are known for weak limbs, invasive roots, or structural issues that can lead to long-term maintenance problems.

While this list covers some of the most common problem trees, it’s always a good idea to consult with a local professional. Depending on your soil, space, and the condition left behind by the previous tree, there may be other species that aren’t a good fit for your property.

Here are a few trees we recommend avoiding when selecting a replacement in the St. Louis area:

Callery Pear (including Bradford Pear)

Once widely planted for its spring flowers, the Callery Pear is now considered invasive across Missouri. These trees grow quickly but have extremely weak branching, which often leads to major limb failure during storms. Most cities discourage planting them.

Silver Maple

This fast-growing tree is common in older neighborhoods, but it comes with problems. Shallow roots, soft wood, and frequent breakage make it a poor long-term investment. It also tends to interfere with foundations, sidewalks, and sewer lines.

Tree-of-Heaven

An aggressive invasive species that spreads quickly through root suckers and seeds. It offers little value to the landscape and can be nearly impossible to control once established. It’s also known to outcompete native trees.

Siberian Elm

Not to be confused with the American Elm, this variety grows fast but has weak limbs and poor disease resistance. Branches often break without warning, and the tree’s shape becomes difficult to manage as it matures.

Mimosa Tree

While attractive when young, Mimosas are prone to disease and spread aggressively in disturbed soil. They rarely last more than 10 to 15 years and often become a removal job themselves down the line.

What to Consider Before You Replant

Planting a new tree after removal is not as simple as digging a hole in the same spot. The condition of the space, the previous tree, and your long-term goals should all factor into the decision.

Here are a few important things to think about before replanting:

• Soil condition: The area may be compacted or full of leftover wood chips, especially if the stump was ground. You may need to improve the soil or choose a tree that can handle a tougher start.
• Sunlight: After removing a large tree, the area might get more sun than it used to. Make sure your new tree is suited to the current light conditions.
• Root space: Some trees need more underground room than others. Avoid planting varieties with wide or aggressive roots too close to driveways, sidewalks, or your home.
• Drainage: Pay attention to how water moves through the area. Poor drainage can lead to root rot or slow growth unless you choose a tree that tolerates wet soil.
• Size at maturity: Consider how big the tree will get over time. Will it crowd your home, hang over the roof, or block important views as it grows?
• Maintenance needs: Some trees require regular pruning or drop fruit, seeds, or sap. If you prefer something low-maintenance, pick a species that fits your comfort level.

Thinking through these factors now will give your new tree the best chance to grow strong, stay healthy, and fit your yard for years to come.

Need Help Choosing the Right Tree?

After a tree is removed, picking the right replacement is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your yard. It affects how the space looks, how it functions, and how much maintenance it will need in the years ahead.

At Hunter Tree Service, we help homeowners across the St. Louis area choose trees that match their property, their goals, and the conditions left behind after removal. Whether you already have a tree in mind or want expert advice, we’re here to help.

Request a free estimate, and we’ll guide you through the best options for your yard.