Introduction
Tired of staring at your neighbor’s poorly maintained fence? Yearning for a secluded backyard oasis? Dreaming of a shady spot to relax on a hot summer day? If so, fast growing trees might seem like the perfect solution to your landscaping desires. The promise of rapid transformation, of creating privacy and beauty in a fraction of the time it takes with slower-growing species, is undeniably appealing.
But what exactly constitutes a fast growing tree? Generally, we’re talking about trees that can add three feet or more to their height each year. And while the allure of instant gratification is strong, it’s crucial to approach the selection of fast growing trees with a healthy dose of research and realistic expectations. This article aims to provide a balanced perspective on fast growing trees, delving into popular species, analyzing authentic customer reviews, and equipping you with the knowledge to make informed decisions for your property.
While the potential benefits – enhanced privacy, increased shade, boosted curb appeal, and even erosion control – are substantial, fast growing trees also come with potential drawbacks. These can include higher maintenance requirements, potentially aggressive root systems, shorter lifespans than their slower-growing counterparts, and susceptibility to certain pests and diseases. Therefore, a thorough understanding of both the pros and cons is essential before you start digging.
Why Choose Fast Growing Trees?
The appeal of fast growing trees is multifaceted. For many homeowners, the immediate need for privacy is the driving force. Planting a row of strategically placed fast growing trees can create a natural, living privacy screen, offering a welcome respite from prying eyes and unwanted noise. These living walls not only provide seclusion but also add a touch of natural beauty to your landscape.
Beyond privacy, fast growing trees offer valuable shade and cooling benefits. By strategically planting trees around your home, you can significantly reduce your energy costs during the hot summer months. The shade provided by the canopy can lower the temperature inside your home, reducing the need for air conditioning and saving you money on your energy bills. Moreover, the shade creates comfortable outdoor spaces where you can relax and enjoy the fresh air.
Of course, the aesthetic appeal of fast growing trees is also a major draw. A well-landscaped yard can dramatically enhance the curb appeal of your home, increasing its value and making it more attractive to potential buyers. Fast growing trees can quickly transform a barren landscape into a lush, inviting oasis, adding character and charm to your property.
Furthermore, fast growing trees can serve as effective windbreaks, protecting your home and property from strong winds. This is particularly beneficial in areas prone to high winds, as it can help to prevent damage to your home, landscaping, and even your vehicles. In addition to wind protection, certain fast growing tree species are excellent for erosion control. Their extensive root systems help to stabilize the soil, preventing erosion and protecting against landslides. This is particularly important on sloped properties or in areas prone to heavy rainfall.
Finally, let’s not forget that many people simply lack the patience for slow growth. Establishing a mature landscape can take decades with slower-growing species. Fast growing trees offer the satisfaction of seeing tangible results quickly, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of a mature landscape in a much shorter timeframe.
Popular Fast Growing Tree Species: Reviews and Considerations
Choosing the right fast growing tree for your property requires careful consideration of your specific needs and environmental conditions. Here’s a closer look at some popular options, along with real customer reviews and important considerations:
Leyland Cypress
Perhaps the most well-known fast growing tree, the Leyland Cypress is renowned for its rapid growth rate and dense foliage. It can quickly create a solid privacy screen, making it a popular choice for homeowners seeking instant seclusion.
However, the Leyland Cypress also comes with its share of drawbacks. It’s susceptible to certain diseases, particularly bagworms and Cypress Tip Blight, and requires regular trimming to maintain its desired shape and size. Left unchecked, it can quickly become overgrown and unsightly.
Real Customer Reviews:
Positive: “Planted these a few years ago and they’ve created a fantastic privacy screen. They grow incredibly fast!”
Negative: “Lost several Leyland Cypress trees to disease. They require a lot of maintenance and are prone to problems.”
Green Giant Arborvitae
A popular alternative to the Leyland Cypress, the Green Giant Arborvitae offers similar benefits in terms of rapid growth and privacy screening, but with improved disease resistance. It maintains a naturally pyramidal shape, requiring less pruning than the Leyland Cypress.
While more resistant to disease, the Green Giant Arborvitae can still be susceptible to pests like spider mites and can grow quite large if not given adequate space.
Real Customer Reviews:
Positive: “These trees are easy to grow and provide excellent privacy. They’re also more disease-resistant than Leyland Cypress.”
Negative: “Deer love to eat these! Make sure you protect them if you have deer in your area.”
Hybrid Poplar
The Hybrid Poplar is known for its exceptionally fast growth rate, making it a popular choice for creating quick privacy screens or windbreaks. It’s also an effective option for erosion control, thanks to its extensive root system.
However, the Hybrid Poplar has a relatively short lifespan compared to other tree species and is prone to weak wood, making it susceptible to breakage in strong winds. It can also have an aggressive root system that can damage pipes and foundations.
Real Customer Reviews:
Positive: “These trees grow like crazy! Perfect for creating a quick windbreak.”
Negative: “Very brittle branches that break easily in storms. Also, the roots are very invasive.”
River Birch
The River Birch is a beautiful tree with attractive peeling bark, making it a visually appealing addition to any landscape. It’s also tolerant of wet soils, making it a good choice for areas with poor drainage.
However, the River Birch can be messy, shedding bark throughout the year. It’s also susceptible to certain pests, such as aphids and borers.
Real Customer Reviews:
Positive: “Love the beautiful bark on this tree. Adds a lot of interest to my yard.”
Negative: “The shedding bark can be a nuisance. It requires regular cleanup.”
Thuja Emerald Green
The Thuja Emerald Green is another arborvitae variety prized for its dense, emerald green foliage and compact growth habit. It’s an excellent choice for hedges and formal gardens.
However, the Thuja Emerald Green is susceptible to bagworms, which can defoliate the tree if left untreated.
Real Customer Reviews:
Positive: “These are perfect for creating a formal hedge. They’re easy to maintain and look great.”
Negative: “Bagworms can be a real problem. You need to monitor them closely and treat them as needed.”
Important Note: Remember that “fast growing” doesn’t always equate to “best.” Consider long-term sustainability, maintenance demands, and possible issues.
Factors to Consider Before Planting
Before planting any fast growing tree, it’s imperative that you take into account several factors:
Your climate and hardiness zone must be compatible with the tree species. A tree that thrives in a warm climate may not survive in a colder region. Be sure to select a tree that is well-suited to your local climate.
The type and drainage of your soil should also be assessed. Some trees prefer well-drained soil, while others can tolerate wet conditions. Testing your soil and amending it if needed is crucial for ensuring the health and vigor of your trees.
The amount of sunlight your planting location receives is another key consideration. Most fast growing trees require at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Be sure to choose a location that provides adequate sunlight for your trees.
Think about the size of the tree when it reaches maturity, then make sure it has enough space to grow without crowding other plants or structures. Planting a tree too close to your house or other buildings can lead to problems down the road.
You must also keep in mind that a tree’s root system can impact pipes, foundations, and neighboring properties. Some trees have aggressive root systems that can cause damage to underground utilities and even crack foundations. Choose trees with non-invasive root systems to avoid potential problems.
Don’t underestimate the long-term maintenance needs of a fast growing tree. Pruning, watering, fertilizing, and pest control are all essential for maintaining the health and appearance of your trees.
Look into any potential pests and diseases that could affect a species and know whether you want to commit to preventative actions.
Make sure the tree is not considered invasive in your local area.
Where to Buy Fast Growing Trees
Fast growing trees can be purchased from a variety of sources, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:
Your local nurseries offer several advantages, including expert advice and plants that are acclimatized to your local climate. Nursery staff can provide valuable guidance on choosing the right trees for your property and can also offer planting and care tips.
Online retailers provide convenience and a wider selection of trees. However, it’s important to choose reputable online nurseries that guarantee the quality and health of their plants.
Big box stores often offer lower prices, but the quality and selection of trees may be limited. The staff may also lack the expertise to provide adequate planting and care advice.
Regardless of where you choose to buy your trees, it’s important to inspect them carefully before purchasing. Look for healthy root systems, signs of disease, and any other potential problems.
Planting and Care Tips for Fast Growth
Proper planting and care are essential for ensuring the successful establishment and rapid growth of your fast growing trees:
Use proper planting techniques by digging a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Carefully remove the tree from its container and gently loosen the roots. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
After planting, water thoroughly and regularly, especially during the first year. Fast growing trees require consistent moisture to thrive.
Fertilizing with the right fertilizers, and not over-fertilizing, can also help promote growth.
Mulching around the base of the tree helps to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Apply a layer of mulch two to four inches deep, keeping it away from the trunk of the tree.
Pruning is important for encouraging healthy growth and shaping the tree. Prune away any dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
Keep an eye out for pests and diseases and take action quickly if you spot them.
Addressing Common Concerns and Myths
There are several common concerns and myths surrounding fast growing trees that need to be addressed:
One myth is that all fast growing trees have weak wood. While some species are more prone to breakage than others, this is not true of all fast growing trees.
Another myth is that all fast growing trees have invasive roots. Again, this is not true of all species.
The long-term investment you make when planting fast growing trees should be weighed against the immediate gratification of faster results.
While fast growing trees can provide numerous environmental benefits, such as carbon sequestration and wildlife habitat, they can also have negative impacts, such as competing with native species and altering soil conditions.
Conclusion
Fast growing trees offer a compelling solution for homeowners seeking privacy, shade, and aesthetic enhancement. However, selecting the right species and providing proper care are essential for long-term success. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this article and conducting thorough research, you can make informed decisions that will transform your landscape and provide years of enjoyment.
Before you make any decisions, do your own research and choose the right tree for your specific needs and location. Consider leaving a comment below and sharing your experiences.
While planting these trees can be a great solution, you will have a better long term experience by being careful and doing thorough planning.
