WOODSTOCK – Ash and maples have dominated the trees planted around homes for 40 years for good reason: they are fast growers, adapted to many types of soils and, depending on selections, provide provided outstanding fall color and limited seed production.

But the tree-killing emerald ash borer signaled the end to ash planting. And maples are overplanted, making them the next vulnerable species, just as the American elm and American chestnut were.

Although there is no perfect tree, many are adapted to Illinois landscapes.