If your backyard looks more “blank canvas” than “shady retreat,” you’re probably wondering what trees can grow fast and start making a visual impact. Whether you’ve recently moved in, lost a tree to a storm, or just want more privacy and shade, fast-growing trees are a fantastic way to breathe life into your landscape—without waiting decades.
At Master’s Tree Care Experts, we’re all about planting with purpose. Let’s walk through the top fast-growing trees ideal for yards in Lee’s Summit, MO, and what you need to know before putting shovel to soil.
Table of Contents
Pin Oak: Stately Shade with Speed
One of the most popular fast-growing shade trees in Missouri, Pin Oak is a backyard hero.
- Growth Rate: Up to 2.5 feet per year
- Height at Maturity: 60–70 feet
- Best For: Large yards, shade, fall color
- Soil Needs: Prefers acidic, moist, well-drained soils
Pros:
- Fast canopy development for quick shade
- Tolerates urban pollution well
- Beautiful red-bronze fall color
Care Tips:
- Avoid planting near foundations; roots can be aggressive
- Regular pruning keeps it structurally sound
River Birch: Resilient Beauty for Small Yards
River Birch brings elegant peeling bark and golden fall foliage, and it thrives even where other trees struggle.
- Growth Rate: 1.5 to 2 feet per year
- Height at Maturity: 40–70 feet
- Best For: Small yards, moist soil areas
- Soil Needs: Tolerates wet conditions, thrives in clay or loam
Pros:
- Great for erosion control near water
- Resistant to most birch diseases
Care Tips:
- Water regularly during droughts
- Consider mulch to retain moisture
Weeping Willow: Dramatic, Fast, and Graceful
If you’re after something whimsical and quick, the Weeping Willow delivers dramatic results—fast.
- Growth Rate: 3–8 feet per year
- Height at Maturity: 30–50 feet
- Best For: Large spaces, near water features
- Soil Needs: Prefers moist, well-drained soil
Pros:
- Unique cascading form
- Excellent near ponds or creek beds
Caveats:
- Brittle wood—prone to storm damage
- Sheds leaves and branches frequently
- Not ideal near water lines or septic systems
Norway Spruce: Evergreen Speed and Privacy
This fast-growing evergreen makes an excellent privacy screen or windbreak. Norway Spruce is both attractive and functional.
- Growth Rate: 2–3 feet per year
- Height at Maturity: 40–60 feet
- Best For: Privacy screens, year-round greenery
- Soil Needs: Adaptable to many soil types
Pros:
- Retains color all year
- Dense branches provide wildlife shelter
Care Tips:
- Plant with spacing in mind—they grow wide
- Needs full sun for best growth
The Catch: What You Should Know About Fast-Growers
While fast-growing trees offer quick satisfaction, they often come with a few caveats:
- Weaker Wood: Rapid growth sometimes means softer, more brittle wood.
- Shallow Roots: May not anchor as deeply as slow-growing species.
- More Maintenance: You’ll need to prune regularly and monitor for pests or disease.
That’s why it pays to have your trees professionally planted and regularly inspected. Our certified arborists at Master’s Tree Care Experts can help you choose the right tree for your space and maintain its health as it grows.
Ready to Green Up Your Yard?
We offer more than just recommendations—we help you plan, plant, and protect your trees from day one. Whether it’s creating shade, boosting curb appeal, or adding privacy, our team can make it happen fast (and safely).
Call us today at (913) 909-9768 or schedule a consultation for tree care services that make your landscape come alive.