I can't be certain why the maple trees died. I have two other maple trees--a red maple in my backyard and a sugar maple out front--that are doing just fine (aside from mites that are causing black spots each year). I don't remember the type of maple that the 3 street trees were, but they were presumably from the same nursery that my other two maples are from since the same landscaper installed them (and at the same time, as I recall). It's possible the area by the street is getting more water due to the grading of the property, but the ground there doesn't seem soggy, even after our irrigation system waters it. Maybe, somehow, it's too dry? I really don't know what is going on.
Technically speaking, I'm supposed to be planting maple trees, per our homeowner's association, but nearly everyone in the neighborhood is planting something different and the association has recognized that and pretty much said 'hey, whatever' to it. Additionally, I know I'm not the first person in our sub to have problems with maple trees dying. Maybe it's a pH issue or a problem with the compacted soil due to new construction?
Thank you for all of the suggestions. I'm going to re-research a few of the trees you suggested. I'm glad you mentioned about pear trees having softer wood. Prior to reading your post, it was in my top 5 considerations, but I may have to rethink that one.
(As for large shrubs, I can't do those. The trees that we plant need to be actual trees, not to mention that I want actual trees that will help our subdivision achieve the 'mature landscaping' look seen in older, nicer subdivisions with the beautiful, large street trees.
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