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You should plant trees at least 15 to 20 feet away from your house, and more if the tree will grow large and spread its limbs. Trees pose several dangers to houses when planted too close. They can litter the roof with leaves and branches, create fire hazards, make a ladder for larger pests, and even damage the foundation as their roots grow.

If shade is a priority for you, then panting elm trees is a fine choice. A full mature elm tree has enough aesthetic appeal for some folks that it could add value to your home. 

That said, never plant elm trees too close to your home, sewer line, or sidewalks, as their roots can damage these, which can lead to costly repairs.

Yes, you can landscape in the rain, but you should take some precautions to keep yourself and your tools safe. Avoid using electric landscaping tools during rainfall, and don’t mow, thatch, aerate, or rake in the rain, as your tools can more easily tear out roots in the loose soil. Be careful when working on wet grass, and take your time to avoid slipping. Avoid putting in new plants before a particularly bad storm, as heavy rain and strong winds can damage or uproot plants that aren’t yet established.

Unless it only rains once in a blue moon where you live, you’re going to want water-loving plants in your garden bed or pot. A few ideas for plants that aren’t super fast-growing (meaning they’re good in pots or near foundations) and can handle a lot of standing water include: 

• Acorus (Sweet flag)

• Colocasia esculenta (Taro or elephant ear): In many climates, these are annuals, making them less desirable because you need to adjust the chain again after each replant.

• Equisetum scirpoides (Dwarf horsetail rush): non-dwarf varieties of horsetail are fast growers and can take over quickly.

• Juncus effusus (Curly rush)

• Osmunda regalis (Royal fern): Royal fern can grow quickly but can also handle being crowded, making them good container plants.