15 Fast-Growing Trees to Transform Your Yard Quickly

If you’re the kind of person who wants to see results fast, then fast-growing trees might be exactly what your yard needs. Whether you’re looking to add privacy, shade, or just boost your property’s curb appeal without waiting a decade — this guide is for you.

We’ll walk through everything you need to know: why fast-growing trees are awesome, what to consider before planting, and a list of 15 great options (including the pros and cons of each). Plus, I’ll give you a few simple tips to keep these trees healthy and growing like crazy.

Let’s dig in.

Why Plant Fast-Growing Trees?

Fast-growing trees are like the instant noodles of the plant world — but in a good way. Here’s why they’re so popular:

• Instant Shade: Who wants to bake in the sun while waiting 20 years for a tree to grow? Not you. Fast growers give you a cool yard quicker.
• Quick Privacy: Want to block out nosy neighbors or that ugly view? These trees can form a living privacy wall in just a few seasons.
• Curb Appeal That Pays Off: A yard full of mature-looking trees can seriously boost your home’s value and make it feel more “finished.”
• Erosion Control: If you’ve got a slope or water runoff problem, fast-growing trees with strong root systems can help stabilize the soil.
• Perfect for Resellers or Growers: If you’re in the nursery biz, fast-growing trees = faster inventory = quicker sales.

Things to Know Before You Plant

Before you run off to grab a shovel and a tree, pump the brakes for just a second. Here are a few important things to keep in mind:

• Your USDA Hardiness Zone: Make sure the tree you want can actually survive in your zone. Planting the wrong tree in the wrong place is a waste of time and money.
• Space at Maturity: Some trees grow fast — and huge. Know how wide and tall they’ll get so you don’t end up with root damage or branches growing into your house.
• Soil & Drainage: Some trees like it dry, some like it moist. Check what your soil’s working with.
• Invasiveness: A few fast growers can be aggressive or even invasive in some regions. Always check before planting.
• Maintenance Needs: Some of these trees drop limbs easily or shed leaves like crazy. Make sure you’re okay with the cleanup.

15 Fast-Growing Trees for Your Yard

Here’s the fun part. I’ve rounded up 15 trees that are known for their fast growth, plus notes on where they grow best and why they’re worth planting.

1. Hybrid Poplar

• Growth Rate: Up to 8 feet per year
• Zones: 3–9
• Why It’s Great: One of the fastest-growing shade trees around. Tall and narrow — great for windbreaks or privacy screens.
• Heads Up: Lives 30–50 years max, which is shorter than some other hardwoods.

2. Weeping Willow

• Growth Rate: 6–8 feet per year
• Zones: 4–9
• Why It’s Great: Classic look, fast growth, and does well near water or soggy spots.
• Heads Up: Brittle limbs — avoid planting near driveways or patios.

3. Leyland Cypress

• Growth Rate: 3–5 feet per year
• Zones: 6–10
• Why It’s Great: Super popular for privacy screens. Grows dense and tall quickly.
• Heads Up: Needs good airflow to avoid fungal issues.

4. Silver Maple

• Growth Rate: 3–7 feet per year
• Zones: 3–9
• Why It’s Great: Big, beautiful shade tree. Grows fast and handles urban pollution well.
• Heads Up: Shallow roots can lift sidewalks and invade pipes.

5. River Birch

• Growth Rate: 1.5–3 feet per year
• Zones: 4–9
• Why It’s Great: Attractive peeling bark, great for wet soils, and decent growth rate.
• Heads Up: Prefers moist environments — not ideal for dry areas.

6. Red Maple

• Growth Rate: 3–5 feet per year
• Zones: 3–9
• Why It’s Great: Beautiful fall color and quick shade. Great all-around yard tree.
• Heads Up: Roots can be invasive — don’t plant too close to sidewalks or foundations.

7. Thuja Green Giant

• Growth Rate: 3–5 feet per year
• Zones: 5–9
• Why It’s Great: Dense evergreen privacy hedge. Very low-maintenance and pest-resistant.
• Heads Up: Needs room to grow wide at the base.

8. Dawn Redwood

• Growth Rate: 2–4 feet per year
• Zones: 5–8
• Why It’s Great: Deciduous conifer with a unique look. Ancient species that’s surprisingly modern-friendly.
• Heads Up: Likes moist soil — not drought-tolerant.

9. Tulip Poplar (Tuliptree)

• Growth Rate: 3–5 feet per year
• Zones: 4–9
• Why It’s Great: Tall and stately with tulip-shaped flowers in spring. Fast-growing hardwood.
• Heads Up: Big tree — needs space to thrive.

10. Eastern White Pine

• Growth Rate: 2–3 feet per year
• Zones: 3–8
• Why It’s Great: Soft, long needles and fast height growth. Excellent for windbreaks.
• Heads Up: Sensitive to salt — not ideal for roadside planting.

11. Quaking Aspen

• Growth Rate: 2–3 feet per year
• Zones: 1–7
• Why It’s Great: Gorgeous movement in the wind and amazing fall color.
• Heads Up: Sends up suckers — can spread like crazy if unmanaged.

12. Arizona Cypress

• Growth Rate: 3–4 feet per year
• Zones: 7–9
• Why It’s Great: Drought-tolerant evergreen with a silvery-blue color. Great for hot climates.
• Heads Up: Needs full sun and well-drained soil.

13. Eucalyptus

• Growth Rate: 6–10 feet per year
• Zones: 8–11
• Why It’s Great: Incredibly fast-growing, aromatic leaves, and pest-repelling properties.
• Heads Up: Only for warm zones and can be invasive in some areas.

14. Empress Tree (Paulownia)

• Growth Rate: Up to 15 feet in a single season
• Zones: 5–9
• Why It’s Great: Huge leaves, stunning purple flowers, and crazy-fast growth.
• Heads Up: Can be invasive in certain states — check before planting.

15. Lombardy Poplar

• Growth Rate: 6–10 feet per year
• Zones: 3–9
• Why It’s Great: Columnar shape makes it perfect for tight spots or dramatic borders.
• Heads Up: Short-lived (15–20 years) and susceptible to disease.

How to Keep Fast-Growing Trees Healthy

Want these trees to live up to their fast-growing reputation? Here’s how to give them the best start:

• Water Deep, Not Often: Long soaks encourage deep roots. Avoid shallow watering.
• Mulch Around the Base: Helps keep soil moist and cuts down on weeds. Don’t pile it against the trunk.
• Fertilize Once a Year: Use a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
• Prune Young: Train the tree early to develop strong structure. Remove weak or crowded branches.
• Stake If Needed: Especially in windy areas or for top-heavy trees. Just don’t leave the stake on too long.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the fastest growers can become a headache if planted or cared for the wrong way. Here are a few rookie mistakes to watch out for:

• Planting too close to structures
• Ignoring the root system
• Skipping regular maintenance
• Choosing the wrong tree for your climate zone

Where to Buy Fast-Growing Trees

You’ve got a few options here:

• Local Nurseries: Great for getting zone-specific advice and healthy, acclimated trees.
• Online Nurseries: Convenient and often cheaper, especially for rare or specialty trees.
• Big Box Stores: Okay for basics, but be careful — plants can be stressed from travel.

A few reputable online sources to consider:

• Fast-Growing-Trees.com
• Nature Hills Nursery
• Arbor Day Foundation

Bonus tip: If you’re a grower, these trees can be a hot-seller item when you root cuttings or grow from liners.

Final Thoughts

Fast-growing trees are an awesome way to bring life, shade, privacy, and beauty to your yard without the wait. Just remember — fast doesn’t always mean zero-maintenance. Choose the right tree for your climate and space, and you’ll enjoy years of quick rewards.

Let’s get growing.