Are you looking for the best ways to improve the comfort of your outdoor space? Incorporating trees in your yard can be a great idea to add some character and some shade . Shade can trees provide comfort during the hot summer months when the indoors are sweltering and the sky outside is bursting with full sun. To beat the summer heat for years to come, plant the best shade trees in your landscape.
The question is which trees are great for summer shade? This post highlights the best and the fastest-growing types of shade trees for summer.
1. Tulip Poplar
Recognized by its distinctive leaf shape, the tulip poplar makes a perfect choice for the back and front yard. This tree features bright-yellow blossoms that look like tulips, while the trunks are straight, dark gray, and can grow up to 3 feet wide.
This tree features a glorious bloom, and the native species is attractive to honey bees. Varieties of tulip poplar can grow pretty big very fast, providing a suitable shade solution for your summer months. The tulip poplar requires rich moist soils that drain well. Plant it in full sun locations, because in low light situations the branches may become weak and scrawny.
Tulip poplars can grow over 100 feet tall, so they are not suitable for small yards. If grown in large yards, the tree’s dense canopy provides a generous shaded area keeping you cool under the hot summer sun. If you have a large space in your yard, consider planting more than one tulip poplar tree for that impressive display.
2. Royal Empress
Classified as one of the fastest growing shade trees, the royal empress features large leaves with a rich green hue that nicely compliments the colorful summer months. The Royal empress features a densely leaved canopy providing a deep shade during the hot parts of the year. The tree grows perfectly in well-drained soil and does best in full sun locations. This unique shade tree is perfect for growing in your front yard as it presents an amazing appearance all-year round.
3. American Red Maple
No matter the yard size, there is a perfect maple out there to produce that cool summer shade. If you are looking for a reliable shade tree that provides an amazing colorful appearance all year round, choose the American native red maple. This tree features a nice oval canopy with bright green leaves that turn red in autumn. It also features a high canopy, and the branch structure can be seen perfectly from underneath. The tree also features a stunning fall display with buds opening to show red flowers.
While the American red maple is somewhat pest resistant, aphids and scales occasionally feed off its leaves which may cause discoloration and even possible death. However, there is a wide range of pesticides available to help control the bugs.
4. Weeping Willow
Often planted by gardeners for a focal shade spot, a weeping willow features branches that gracefully arch downwards. The leaves are long and narrow, and feature a flexible twig that swings gracefully in the presence of a slight breeze. This shade tree blooms in late winter or spring when the yellow flowers appear.
Native to China, this tree is not only beautiful in your yard, but has several uses. It is tolerant to a wide variety of well-draining soil, but prefers moist and slightly acidic soil.
Conclusion
We have looked at some of the best shade trees to grow in your yard. These trees not only provide shade, but are also good for the environment, and compound curb appeal. Talk to experienced gardeners for the best practices when planting shade trees in your yard.