Adding trees to your landscape is one of the most rewarding home improvement projects you can undertake. Many homeowners want results quickly, leading them to seek out fast-growing species that provide shade, privacy, or beauty in a fraction of the time. Buying these trees online has become a popular and reliable way to access high-quality specimens delivered right to your door.
The Benefits of Planting Fast-Growing Trees
Fast-growing trees offer several immediate advantages for your property. The most common reason people choose these varieties is to create a privacy screen or a natural fence between neighbors.
Beyond privacy, these trees provide quick relief from the sun. A well-placed shade tree can lower your home’s cooling costs by providing a canopy that blocks direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day.
Additionally, fast-growing trees can significantly improve your home’s curb appeal. A lush, green landscape makes a property look established and well-maintained, which can increase overall property value in a short period.
Popular Varieties of Fast-Growing Trees
When shopping for trees online, you will encounter several species known for their rapid growth rates. It is helpful to categorize them by their primary function in your yard.
Evergreens for Privacy
- Thuja Green Giant: This is one of the most popular privacy trees. It can grow up to 3 to 5 feet per year and maintains a dense, conical shape that stays green year-round.
- Leyland Cypress: Known for its feathery foliage and rapid height gain, this tree is excellent for creating tall hedges and windbreaks.
- Nellie Stevens Holly: If you want a privacy screen that also produces beautiful red berries, this holly is a fast-growing evergreen choice.
Shade Trees for Quick Coverage
- Hybrid Poplar: Often cited as the fastest-growing shade tree, it can grow up to 8 feet in a single year. It is ideal for large open spaces that need immediate coverage.
- Weeping Willow: These iconic trees thrive near water and grow very quickly, creating a dramatic, sweeping canopy in just a few seasons.
- American Red Maple: While not as fast as the poplar, it offers a great balance of relatively quick growth and stunning autumn color.
Flowering and Ornamental Trees
- Cleveland Select Pear: This tree grows quickly into a narrow, upright shape and produces a massive amount of white flowers in the spring.
- Royal Empress Tree: Known for its huge leaves and purple flowers, this tree is famous for its incredible growth rate, sometimes reaching 10 feet in its first year.
How to Select the Right Tree for Your Yard
Before you make a purchase, it is important to evaluate your specific environment. Not every fast-growing tree will thrive in every location.
Check Your Hardiness Zone
The most critical factor is your USDA Plant Hardiness Zone. This map divides regions based on their average annual minimum winter temperature. Most online nurseries allow you to filter trees by your specific zone to ensure the plant can survive the winter in your area.
Evaluate Your Soil and Sunlight
Observe your planting site throughout the day. Does it receive full sun (at least 6 hours), partial shade, or full shade? You should also check your soil type. Some trees prefer well-drained sandy soil, while others can handle heavy clay or wet areas.
Consider the Mature Size
Because these trees grow so fast, it is easy to forget how large they will eventually become. Always check the mature height and width of a tree before planting. Ensure you are not planting a tree too close to power lines, your home’s foundation, or underground pipes.
Tips for Buying Trees Online
Purchasing plants through an online nursery is convenient, but it requires a bit of research to ensure you get the best quality. Follow these steps for a successful experience.
Look for Health Guarantees
Reputable online nurseries often provide a stay-alive guarantee. This typically ranges from 30 days to a full year. Knowing that the company stands behind the health of their plants provides peace of mind when ordering living items through the mail.
Check Shipping Methods
Inquire about how the trees are packaged. Quality sellers use specialized boxes and moisture-retaining materials to ensure the root system stays hydrated and protected during transit. Avoid sellers that do not provide clear information on their shipping process.
Read Customer Reviews
Look for reviews that mention the condition of the tree upon arrival. Pay attention to how the company handles issues if a plant arrives damaged. A company with a history of good customer service is always a safer bet.
How to Plant Your New Trees for Success
Once your trees arrive, proper planting is the key to maintaining that fast growth rate. Even the healthiest tree can struggle if it is not put in the ground correctly.
- Hydrate the roots: If your tree arrives bare-root, soak the roots in a bucket of water for a few hours before planting. If it is in a container, water it thoroughly before removing it from the pot.
- Dig the right hole: The hole should be twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper. Planting a tree too deep is a common mistake that can suffocate the roots.
- Loosen the roots: Gently tease the roots outward if they are circling the inside of the pot. This encourages them to grow into the surrounding soil.
- Fill and water: Fill the hole with the original soil. Avoid adding too much fertilizer at this stage, as it can burn young roots. Water the tree immediately after planting to settle the soil and remove air pockets.
- Add mulch: Apply a 2- to 3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.
Long-Term Care for Rapid Growth
To keep your trees growing at their maximum potential, they need consistent care during their first two years. Regular watering is the most important factor, especially during dry summer months.
Pruning is also essential for fast-growing varieties. Because they put on wood so quickly, some species may develop weak branches. Light pruning helps the tree develop a strong central leader and a sturdy structure that can withstand wind and snow.
Monitoring for pests and diseases is also vital. While many fast-growing trees are bred for resistance, catching an issue early can prevent a setback in growth. Simple organic treatments or adjustments in watering often solve most common landscape problems.
Conclusion
Fast-growing trees are an excellent investment for anyone looking to enhance their outdoor living space quickly. By selecting the right species for your climate and following proper planting techniques, you can enjoy a more private, shaded, and beautiful yard in just a few seasons. If you found this guide helpful, consider exploring our other articles on home landscaping and plant care to keep your garden thriving year-round.