Fast Growing Trees | Adding Shade and Privacy to a New Backyard
If you have just moved into your newly constructed home you may discover that the yard is noticeably vacant of trees and landscaping. To add shade and privacy to your new backyard you need to select some fast growing trees that will complement your new home. Some of the most popular options for fast growing trees can be found below. Be sure to select a specie that is suited for your climate and corresponding planting zone.
You can consider the sun above as free solar power for your home. But in the dead heat of summer you need some shade to offset the effects of the sun that will drive up your air conditioning bill. The list of fast growing trees below can offer quick relief from the blazing heat of the sun. Plant your new trees in such a manner that the shade will block the sun from streaming into your windows, and overheating the roof and walls at certain times of the day. Experts say that a group of shade trees planted on the west side of your home can reduce electrical consumption in the summer months by up to 30 percent.
Most Popular Fast Growing Trees
Hybrid Poplar: The Hybrid Poplar tops the list of fast growing trees. It can grow up to 8 FT per year and is suitable for zones 3-8. The Hybrid Poplar adapts well to most conditions and is disease resistant. Fully mature Poplar Trees can reach heights of 40 to 50 FT.
Weeping Willow: If your goal is to create a large shaded area in your backyard, consider the Weeping Willow. The Weeping Willow grows fast in zones 4 to 9 and it even survives well in soggy soil. The growth rate is between 3 and 8 FT per year. A fully mature Weeping Willow will reach a height of 30 to 40 FT with a span of 35 FT or more.
Red Oak: The Red Oak is the fastest growing of the Oak Trees. It provides a dense leafy canopy for adequate shade in the summer months. As an added bonus; the steady supply of acorns will entice squirrels, deer, and other wildlife to visit your yard. Plant a Northern Red Oak in zones 4 through 9, while the Southern Red Oak is best suited for zones 6 through 10. Fully mature Red Oak trees can reach a height of 60 Feet.
Red Maple: The Red Maple has a growth rate of 3 to 5 feet per year. A mature Red Maple will top out at about 40 Feet tall. In addition to shade and privacy the Red Maple offers a beautiful burst of red to your yard in the fall. This hardy tree can be planted in zones 3 through 9.
Crape Myrtle: Speaking of color, you can add some color to your landscape by planting an Arapaho Crape Myrtle or a Dynamite Crape Myrtle. Both grow well in zones 7-9. The Arapaho can display colorful blooms from spring to fall.
