I would like to get a little leaf linden, Tilia cordata, as a shade tree. How far away from the house should I plant it so it provides shade to the house but the roots don't interfere with the foundation? Thanks.
There is no reason a Tilia cordata's roots will interfere with a well built foundation. You should be concerned about placing the tree the correct distance to cast the shade where and when you want it. Tilias also drop leaves, droops and flowers and can fill an eaves trough. Further they are larger and faster growing than people expect. As such I would suggest planting a minimum of 15 feet from the house and hopefully more.
If hardy there the best linden to plant is T. tomentosa. Other kinds may have significant aphid drip - unless this is not a problem in your area. Another factor to consider is that lindens are narcotic to bees, at flowering time you may have affected bees walking around on the ground etc.
Tilia tomentosa is hard to find in most Ontario nurseries and may be too large if the person is considering a little-leaf linden.
