should I remove the thundercloud plum

Question

Previous owner planted a thundercloud plum tree too close to the porch. The thundercloud plum looks like it is overshadowing the house, and some branches have above the roof of the porch. Should I remove or severely trim it? Attached is the picture of the plum tree.
I’m thinking of replacing the plum tree with a kwanzan cherry tree, but plant it further from the porch. A nursery that sells kwanzan tree states its mature growth is 15-25 ft tall and wide. Is this accurate? Some nurseries claim kwanzan cherry trees grow up to 30 ft.

Answer 1

Complete removal will be quite difficult. I don’t see the tree causing much issue. These can handle being pruned somewhat heavily right after the blooms drop, so that will be the best way to maintain the size and shape of the shrub. Pruning too late, or early will keep it from flowering next year, so it is important only do to so right as it is done flowering.

Should you choose to replace it, then you will be replacing with a much larger tree. It is always best to assume that it can get a little bigger than stated. This will keep you from planting too close.

Ultimately, the call is up to you. It can be quite a pain to remove a tree, and keep it from coming back from roots and seedlings, though.