What is a good, fast-growing shade tree for this area?
• Most of the really fast-growing trees (like mulberry, poplar, willow and some ash) are not good trees. Their softer wood makes them more susceptible to insect and disease problems and they are likely to be very short-lived. Quality trees such as Oaks, Chinese Pistache, Bald Cypress, Cedar Elm and Pecan will live much longer with fewer problems along the way. These trees can be moderately fast growers if they are properly watered and fertilized and if you keep weeds and grass away their trunks. Weeds and grass compete for water and nutrients and will slow down the tree’s growth. A good layer of mulch or a fibrous weed mat will hold conserve water and keep weeds away.
