Fast-growing trees for the garden – ornamental trees for more shade

Fast-growing trees for the garden are one of the best ways to slow global climate change. They reach magnificent sizes in no time and do not expect any special attention from you. Then these giant plants start filtering pollution from the air around them. They provide safe nesting sites and food for nearby wildlife. Many gardeners also see planting a tree in a spiritual way as it will most likely outlive them and be passed on to the next generation.

However, trees in the garden are not for everyone. They change the design of your outdoor areas significantly. Your location must also be chosen after careful consideration. Many trees develop aggressive root systems that can easily damage underground structures if planted too close to the home. Luckily, in this case, they don’t necessarily have to be felled. There are now modern machines that can be used to transplant trees instead of killing them.

Trees, whether ornamental or fruit trees, are a long-term investment that require a lot of dedication. If you’ve covered everything and want to make this addition to your own outdoor space, then read on. In today’s post we show you some of the most beautiful, fast-growing and easy-care trees for your garden.

These trees live more than 100 years

Bluebell tree (Paulownia tomentosa)

As we write about fast-growing trees today, it’s only fair to start our list with the record-holder. The bluebell tree, also known as the emperor tree or kiri tree, is the fastest growing tree in the world. Depending on conditions and care, it can grow 3 to 6 meters in its first year! The extreme growth then gradually slows down to about 1 meter per year until the giant plant reaches its maximum size of about 25 meters. This ornamental tree reaches maturity at around 10 years of age.

However, the bluebell tree is not only loved for its extremely fast growth. It also has many practical, decorative and symbolic meanings. In April, it enchants the senses with vanilla-scented, purple flowers that resemble foxgloves in appearance. Its huge, heart-shaped leaves cast a dense shade all year round. Studies have even shown that these large leaves are actually key components of powerful photosynthesis. The emperor tree can absorb up to 10 times as much carbon as most other tree species.

Another of its impressive qualities cannot be seen on the surface. The emperor tree actually nourishes the soil and provides a natural fertilizer for the plants around it. Its wood has an impressive strength-to-weight ratio. The tree will always grow back even if it is felled.

This ornamental tree fully deserves the name Kaiserbaum

The huge leaves immediately attract attention

Bluebell trees grow relatively compact

Mulberry (Morus)

The mulberry is both an ornamental and a fruit tree. As with most trees, it grows vigorously for the first few years and then slows down as it matures. The mulberry is about 3 to 4 meters high in the first six years. Over time and without pruning, it can reach a maximum height of 20 meters.

You can grow a mulberry tree from a seedling if you are patient. A sunny spot and well-drained soil are all this giant plant needs to thrive. Mulberries are hardy and hardy and once established they will take care of themselves. It is best to only prune dying branches as this tree does not take heavy pruning very well.

From April to May the mulberry trees are in bloom and pollinated by the wind. Between June and July, the grape-like fruits then begin to ripen. Depending on the tree species, they are white (Morus alba) and honey-sweet, crimson (Morus rubra) and sour-sweet or purple-black (Morus nigra) and very sweet. All three types of berries are super healthy, rich in vitamins C, K1, E, iron and potassium. They can be processed into jams, marmalades, juices, wine, various sweets, etc. If you are looking for a tree that is not only beautiful to look at but also bears fruit, then the mulberry is the tree for you.

The mulberry tree is not only pretty, but also very useful

Mulberries taste very sweet and are also very healthy

Unripe black mulberries are red, but should not be confused with Morus rubra

silver birch (Betula pendula)

Silver birch, silver birch, silver birch – whichever name you choose, this giant plant is immediately recognizable and absolutely unmistakable. It stands out from other trees with its distinctive silvery-white peeling bark and enchantingly beautiful, triangular and intensely green leaves. In autumn they turn golden yellow and set breathtaking color contrasts in your outdoor areas.

Birch trees look particularly intriguing when planted close together in small groups. They don’t take up much space in the garden and don’t cast a dense shade. However, numerous ornamental plants feel comfortable in the semi-shade under their crown. These ornamental trees grow around 60 cm per year and reach a maximum height of around 25 metres.

The silver birch has a particularly strong symbolic meaning for Norse and Celtic cultures. It can withstand all kinds of extreme conditions and quickly colonizes areas destroyed by forest fires. Wreaths of birch twigs bring good luck and ward off negative energies. Healing powers are also attributed to the tree, mainly due to the so-called birch water.

Birch trees work beautifully with the Scandi Chic aesthetic

The bark may only be cut from the tree very carefully

In winter the birch is bare and yet beautiful

Fast-growing trees in any large yard can truly slow down climate change

White willow (Salix alba)

The silver willow is a visually appealing ornamental tree and a real eye-catcher in the garden. It is easily recognized by its long, elegantly cascading branches and silvery-green leaves that turn coppery-yellow in fall. This tree looks particularly beautiful hanging over garden ponds. These areas also provide the willow with the growing conditions it needs – moist but loose soil. White willows are commonly used to prevent soil erosion and improve soil fertility. However, be aware that the crown casts a dense shade, so choose companion plants that don’t need a lot of sun.

Silver willows are also characterized by strong growth. Within the first three years, this tree can easily reach 10 meters in height. At the peak of its maturity, it typically measures around 30 to 35 meters. From April to May, the ornamental tree forms small flowers that are similar in appearance to those of the pussy willow. After that, fluffy, white clusters of seeds ripen, which fortunately can only trigger allergic reactions in a few people. In the past, willow pollen was even used to stuff pillows and blankets.

Dark trunk, silvery leaves – this is how you recognize the white willow

You can make pretty wreaths and other arrangements from the long shoots

There are numerous fast-growing trees that can give the garden that certain something in just a few years. The species we’ve listed in today’s article are all large, hardy, long-lived, and hardy. They only require a little care for the first few years until they become well established. After that, you can admire them without further ado.

Fast growing trees for more shade and romance