How to Grow Trees Fast for Shady Areas

Examine the plant hardiness growing zone guide (see resources) and locate your area on the map. Take note of the growing zone of your location.

Head out to a garden center. Ask the staff about fast-growing trees suitable for your growing zone. Ask for trees that grow 1 1/2 to 2 feet per year.

Choose a tree from the list provided by the garden center, one that will have a wide branch spread to provide shade beneath. Purchase one of more of the trees already grown to a few feet in height.

Pick a location for the trees. You'll need enough space to provide adequate growing room away from structures and one other. Measure out a diameter around each tree based on full maturity size--about 20 feet for large trees and 10 feet for smaller ones. Ensure the area has plenty of direct sunlight and rich, well-draining soil.

Use the spade to dig a hole for your tree that's about a foot wider than the tree's root ball and the same depth as it sits in the container. Examine the tree trunk for soil line heights.

Spread out the roots of the tree, then place it into the hole. Fill the hole with soil to the soil line on the tree. Water the soil to remove air pockets, using the garden hose. Cover the roots of the tree with a layer of mulch, starting about 6 inches from the trunk.

Water the newly planted tree four to six times a week for six months. Add fertilizer around the tree after the first month of leafing. Add 1 lb. of balanced fertilizer per inch of tree diameter.

Continue to fertilize the trees in early spring into early June to provide needed nutrients for growth. Water the tree throughout the year when the ground dries enough to crumble dustily in your hand.

Wait as the tree grows tall enough to provide the shade you need. It will take a few years to do so at the expected growth rate.