Exploring Fast Growing Shade Trees For Your Yard

If you are looking for trees to shade your home, you will realize during your search that there are many types of shade trees, both slow growing and fast growing.  There are a few things to consider if you want fast growing shade trees.  Because of their rapid growth, some tend to be weak and others may host various insects and other pests.  In addition, if planted in the wrong location, the rapidly growing root system may be damaging to some of your other property.    

Weak Wood

The Siberian elm is a smaller fast growing tree that will provide plenty of shade.  It grows from 12" to up to three feet per year and grows up to 82'.  The Siberian elm does well in various types of soil and withstands drought as a mature established tree.  Because it grows at a fast rate, the Siberian elm's wood is weakened; thus, it can be damaged by ice and extremely high winds.  Although the Siberian elm is good for firewood, it is prone to insects and diseases; thus, not an ideal tree for shade.   Weeping Willows are also fast growing trees that can grow up to 50' feet, but their lifespan is only about 30 years.  They are beautiful trees and they will provide excellent shade.  Weeping Willows grow well in full sun.  Weeping Willows shed a lot, leaving unsightly twigs and leaves on the lawn and the limbs are very brittle.  Gypsy moss, aphids, borers, and caterpillars are just some of the diseases and pests that invade Weeping Willow trees.

Invasive Root System

The Silver Maple tree is a fast growing tree that would bring beauty to your yard when the silvery leaves are gracefully moved by the wind.  The root system of the silver maple tree is very dense; therefore, should you decide to plant a Silver Maple tree in your yard, you must remember not to plant it near a flower or vegetable garden since the dense roots will take over the area and prevent growth.  The invasive roots of the Silver Maple can also cause sidewalks to crack and clog drain lines.  Similarly, you should avoid planting Weeping Willow trees near sewage lines or septic tanks, or water lines, because Weeping Willows love water and their roots are drawn to wet or moist areas.  Large roots in water lines or septic tanks can cause them to break.

If you are looking to beautify your lawn quickly by planting fast growing trees, you would be wise to consider the faults associated with the trees.  Fast growing trees require plenty of water and the roots will gravitate to moist areas; the wood is soft and easy to become brittle and break, and many become homes to small animals because of their hollow trunks.  Since the life of a fast growing tree is shortened by its faults, adding slow growing shade trees at the same time will allow you to have continued shade and you can slowly cut and remove the fast growing shade trees as they become damaged. 

For more information, consult with a tree service company like Able Scape, Inc.

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