Having a big shade tree in your yard can provide a cooler hangout spot in the summer and cut back on the AC bill. But choosing and planting the right tree so it will grow to full height and provide the shade you want can be tricky. Some trees that are hardier and better suited for this than others, and there are some things you can do to help it have a healthy start.
Before you choose a tree, keep in mind that the best strong, tall, and shade-giving trees take awhile to grow. If you want a quicker solution, an awning or shade sale is a better option. Also, make sure to take root base into account when planting trees in the yard. Make sure the tree will have enough space to grow healthy roots that won’t damage your home’s foundation or walkways.
Oak trees
Oak trees are one of the most frequently recommended trees in North America partly because there are so many native varieties to choose from. Depending on your region, you can almost always find an appropriate oak to plant, and they will grow slowly, but tend to be sturdy. An average oak will grow between a foot and a foot and a half a year, reaching maturity in about 60 years.
Elm trees
Elm trees are also a popular choice for shade, and they grow more than twice as fast as oaks, at three to six feet per year. The American Elm can be found throughout the U.S. and parts of Canada in areas that are considered temperate, although because of a fungal infection called Dutch Elm Disease, there aren’t as many as there used to be. The roots of an elm tend to be a little bit shallower than other trees of their height but they can spread several feet past the size of the tree’s crown, making them unsuitable for smaller yards.
Tulip Poplar trees
For the Eastern and Southeastern parts of the U.S., Tulip Poplars are a good choice for shade. It will grow between three and five feet per year and reach about 70 feet in height. In addition to their size, Tulip Poplars have tulip-shaped flowers that are brightly colored and flower from mid-May through June. Because of their substantial size, Tulip Poplars should be kept well clear of foundations.
Maple trees
Maple trees are a good choice for most of North America, and there are plenty of varieties to choose from. Maples will grow about a foot to a foot and a half per year and reach varying heights depending on the species. Since maples come in a variety of sizes and types, they can be a good choice in many different yards, with dwarf maples being well-suited for smaller spaces. Make sure to get all of the information on whatever species of Maple you plant so you won’t be surprised by the size of the roots or crown.
Hawthorn trees
Hawthorn trees can be grown in most parts of the U.S., and while they’re known as smaller trees, they can sometimes grow to be as tall as 30 feet, and grow one to two feet per year. Hawthorn trees have small flowers in early spring and produce berries in fall. They tend to be good habitats for small birds, as their thin branches aren’t strong enough for predators to land on. The berries also provide a food source for wildlife.
