Trees that are Great for Shade in the Summer

Trees play an important role in enhancing the beauty of your landscape. So, this summer, if you are looking for a way to revamp your yard, consider planting shade trees. Apart from improving the curb appeal of your yard, these trees beat the heat around your home. Shade trees block the direct sunlight and keep your house cool. They shade the shrubs, smaller plants, and grass of your yard to reduce the damage from excessive sunlight. They also improve the water retention capacity of the soil and thus, keep your yard green for years to come.

Trees are good for the environment and come with multiple benefits. By reducing the amount of carbon dioxide and replacing it with fresh oxygen, trees are the lifeline for our survival. Having shade trees in your yard are great for your children as well. They can play and enjoy without any risk of sunburn and have afternoon picnics during the summer. Isn’t that absolutely fantastic? 

So, without further ado, here are some trees that you can plant in your yard to keep your surrounding cooler and make the most.

  • California Sycamores

One of the most popular trees that effectively shade your lawn and house all year long is California Sycamores. These trees can grow up to 80 ft. and withstand every climate. Also, they are fast growing greens that thrive in damp soil and have an advanced root system.

  • Red Oak

Another classic tree that can keep your environment cool and fresh is Red Oak. They have the potential to grow up to 75 feet tall. With a dense crown, they offer your surrounding a good amount of shade. Known for producing striking red autumn foliage, during the colder months, these trees produce vibrant leaves. Trees from the oak family are known for having a long lifespan. However, when compared to others (especially the English oak), red oaks grow faster.

  • Weeping Willow

If you stay in a low-lying area, the Weeping Willow is a great option for your landscape, especially during the summer. Being one of the fastest growing trees, the Weeping Willow can grow to a height of 50 feet. Thus, each year they grow by 3-4 feet. Though they are a fairly hardy tree species and can tolerate medium drought, they thrive in moisture and grow thicker and faster in damp and low areas. Their roots are strong and have the capability to soak extra moisture from the swampy parts of your lawn. So, if you are thinking of revamping your landscape, the Weeping Willow is a great choice. Watch the difference as well as feel the coolness.  

  • Tulip Trees

Known for spectacular blooms during spring, Tulip trees belong to the Magnolia family. If you have an expansive yard, it is the perfect tree to provide shade. When the tree matures, it can grow up to 120 feet in height. However, they grow rapidly as a result of which, you do not have to wait for years to enjoy its shade. Apart from having beautiful flowers, it has leaves that resemble the flowers. With this tree in your landscape, you can see the blooms during spring that will be present in their full beauty till  fall.

These are just some of the shade trees that can transform the overall look of your landscape. To learn more, it is a good idea to have a conversation with a landscape designer. Know which tree best matches with your environment and the soil type in your lawn or garden. So, get some shade and take the chill pill! Don’t let the heat kill your vibe.