Trees are recommended to be planted at least 20 feet from houses. This is to allow space for healthy root growth on all sides of the tree and to minimize future structural hazards for homes as a result of limb breakage. In addition, plants near foundation walls require an application of water, which is undesirable from an engineering standpoint. Water should be directed away from the soil close to homes, not applied to it. This is recommended to avoid potential problems with water infiltration into foundation walls.