Tall Fast Growing Evergreen Trees – Your Ultimate Guide To Instant

ByRimon Chowdhury Updated on

Ever dreamed of a garden that feels like a private sanctuary, sheltered from the world, with lush greenery that stays vibrant all year long? Perhaps you’re looking to create a natural windbreak, reduce road noise, or simply add majestic beauty to your landscape without waiting decades. If you’ve nodded along, then you’re in the perfect place! We all want that immediate impact, that feeling of an established garden, and waiting for trees to grow can test even the most patient gardener.

You’re not alone in wanting a quicker solution. The good news is, achieving that vision is entirely possible with the right choices. This guide is dedicated to helping you discover the magic of tall fast growing evergreen trees – the unsung heroes of instant impact and enduring charm. We’re going to dive deep into selecting, planting, and caring for these magnificent specimens, transforming your outdoor space faster than you might imagine.

By the end of this journey, you’ll be equipped with all the expert knowledge, tips, and confidence you need to choose and nurture the perfect evergreen giants for your garden. Get ready to turn your landscaping dreams into a lush, green reality!

Why Choose Tall Fast Growing Evergreen Trees? Unpacking the Benefits

There’s a reason why so many gardeners, from beginners to seasoned pros, turn to tall fast growing evergreen trees. They offer a unique combination of advantages that can dramatically enhance any property. Think about what you truly desire for your outdoor space – chances are, these trees can deliver.

Let’s explore the incredible benefits of tall fast growing evergreen trees:

  • Instant Privacy Screens: This is often the number one reason! Evergreens maintain their foliage year-round, providing an immediate and continuous barrier against prying eyes. No more waiting for leaves to fill in each spring.
  • Effective Windbreaks: A row of these trees can significantly reduce wind speeds, protecting your home, garden, and other delicate plants from harsh gusts. This can even lead to energy savings!
  • Noise Reduction: Their dense foliage acts as a natural sound buffer, absorbing and deflecting unwanted noise from traffic, neighbors, or busy areas.
  • Year-Round Aesthetic Appeal: While deciduous trees offer seasonal beauty, evergreens provide a constant backdrop of vibrant green, even in the bleakest winter months. They add structure and color when other plants are dormant.
  • Increased Property Value: A well-landscaped yard with mature, healthy trees is a significant selling point for any home. These fast growers help you achieve that established look sooner.
  • Wildlife Habitat: Many evergreen trees offer shelter and nesting sites for birds and small animals, especially during winter. They contribute to a thriving, biodiverse ecosystem in your backyard.
  • Reduced Erosion: Their extensive root systems help stabilize soil, preventing erosion on slopes or in areas prone to runoff.

Imagine enjoying your morning coffee on the patio, completely shielded from the breeze and your neighbor’s view, surrounded by the calming green of your very own forest. That’s the promise of these incredible trees!

Top Picks for Tall Fast Growing Evergreen Trees: Our Expert Selection

Now that you’re convinced of their power, let’s talk about the stars of the show! Selecting the right tree is crucial, and our tall fast growing evergreen trees guide highlights some of the most reliable and beloved varieties. Each has its own charm and specific needs, so consider your climate, soil, and desired mature size.

Leyland Cypress (x Cupressocyparis leylandii)

The Leyland Cypress is a true superstar when it comes to speed and density. If you need a privacy screen fast, this is often the go-to choice. It can grow an astonishing 3-5 feet per year, reaching mature heights of 50-70 feet with a spread of 15-25 feet.

It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, tolerating a range of conditions. Its soft, feathery, dark green foliage makes a beautiful, dense screen. Just be mindful of its mature size and give it plenty of room to grow.

Thuja ‘Green Giant’ (Thuja plicata x standishii)

A hybrid arborvitae, the ‘Green Giant’ lives up to its name, offering robust growth and excellent disease resistance. It boasts a growth rate of 3-5 feet per year, typically reaching 30-50 feet tall and 10-15 feet wide. It’s a fantastic alternative to Leyland Cypress, especially in areas where Leylands struggle with disease.

With its rich green, scale-like foliage and pyramidal shape, it creates a formal yet friendly hedge. It’s incredibly adaptable, handling full sun to partial shade and a variety of soil types, as long as they’re well-drained.

Eastern White Pine (Pinus strobus)

For a more classic, majestic look, the Eastern White Pine is an excellent choice. While slightly slower than the Leyland or Thuja, it still grows at a respectable 2-3 feet per year, eventually soaring to 50-80 feet tall with a spread of 20-40 feet. Its long, soft, bluish-green needles create a graceful, airy appearance.

It prefers full sun and well-drained, acidic soil. It’s a fantastic choice for larger properties where a grand statement is desired, and it provides wonderful habitat for wildlife.

Deodar Cedar (Cedrus deodara)

The Deodar Cedar offers a distinct, elegant profile with its graceful, pendulous branches and beautiful blue-green needles. It grows 1-2 feet per year, reaching 40-70 feet tall and 20-40 feet wide. It’s a magnificent specimen tree that adds architectural interest to any landscape.

It prefers full sun and well-drained soil, tolerating some drought once established. Its unique form makes it a standout choice, especially for those looking for something a bit different from the typical upright evergreens.

Norway Spruce (Picea abies)

If you’re in a colder climate and need a sturdy, fast-growing evergreen, the Norway Spruce is a fantastic option. It grows 1-2 feet per year, reaching 50-80 feet tall and 25-40 feet wide. Its dark green needles and classic conical shape make it a popular choice for windbreaks and large privacy screens.

It’s quite adaptable to various soil conditions but prefers moist, well-drained, acidic soil and full sun. It’s known for its hardiness and ability to withstand harsh winter conditions.

Getting Started: How to Plant Tall Fast Growing Evergreen Trees for Success

Choosing your tree is just the first step! Proper planting is absolutely crucial for establishing strong, healthy tall fast growing evergreen trees. Think of it as laying the foundation for a skyscraper – you want it to be solid. Here are our best tall fast growing evergreen trees tips for planting.

Site Selection and Preparation

Before you even dig, take a moment to assess your site. Most evergreens need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Consider the mature size of your chosen tree – will it have enough room to grow without interfering with structures, power lines, or other plants?

  • Soil Test: If you’re unsure about your soil, a simple soil test can tell you a lot about its pH and nutrient levels. Most evergreens prefer slightly acidic to neutral, well-drained soil.
  • Improve Drainage: If you have heavy clay soil, consider amending it with organic matter like compost or aged pine bark to improve drainage and aeration. Evergreens hate “wet feet.”
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The Planting Process: Step-by-Step

Follow these steps for optimal results:

  1. Dig the Right Hole: Dig a hole that is two to three times wider than the root ball, but only as deep as the root ball. The top of the root ball should be level with or slightly above the surrounding soil, especially in clay soils.
  2. Prepare the Tree: Gently remove the tree from its container. If it’s root-bound (roots circling around the pot), carefully tease them apart or make a few vertical cuts with a clean knife to encourage outward growth. For balled-and-burlapped trees, remove any twine or wire from the top of the root ball and peel back the burlap from the top third.
  3. Position the Tree: Place the tree in the center of the hole, ensuring it stands straight. Double-check that the root collar (where the trunk flares out at the base) is visible and at or slightly above ground level.
  4. Backfill Carefully: Begin backfilling the hole with the soil you removed, gently tamping it down to remove large air pockets. Do not compact the soil too tightly. You can mix in some compost with the backfill soil, but avoid adding too much amendment directly into the planting hole, as it can create a “bathtub effect.”
  5. Water Thoroughly: Once the hole is about two-thirds full, water slowly and deeply to settle the soil around the roots. Finish backfilling and water again.
  6. Create a Water Ring: Form a small soil berm around the edge of the planting hole to create a basin that will hold water over the root zone.
  7. Mulch: Apply a 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch (like wood chips or pine needles) over the root zone, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk. This helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip: Avoid planting too deeply! This is one of the most common mistakes and can lead to serious health issues for your evergreen.

Essential Care Guide for Your Tall Fast Growing Evergreen Trees

Once your beautiful evergreens are in the ground, a consistent care routine will ensure they thrive and reach their full potential. This tall fast growing evergreen trees care guide will walk you through the necessities, ensuring your trees remain healthy and vigorous for years to come.

Watering Wisely

Water is paramount, especially during the first 2-3 years as your trees establish their root systems. Even mature evergreens can suffer from drought stress, particularly in winter when moisture is scarce.

  • Consistency is Key: Aim for consistent moisture, not soggy soil. Check the soil moisture by sticking your finger 2-3 inches deep. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.
  • Deep Watering: Water deeply and slowly, allowing the water to penetrate the entire root zone. This encourages roots to grow deeper, making the tree more drought-tolerant. A soaker hose or drip irrigation can be very effective.
  • Winter Watering: In regions with dry winters, continue to water your evergreens deeply until the ground freezes. This helps prevent winter desiccation (browning from lack of moisture).

Fertilizing for Growth

While fast growers, evergreens generally don’t need heavy fertilization once established, especially if your soil is healthy. However, a little boost can help young trees get a good start.

  • Soil Test First: Always recommend a soil test before applying fertilizer to understand your soil’s actual needs.
  • Slow-Release Options: If fertilization is needed, opt for a slow-release granular fertilizer formulated for evergreens (often higher in nitrogen) in early spring. Follow package directions carefully.
  • Avoid Over-Fertilizing: Too much fertilizer can burn roots and do more harm than good. A healthy layer of compost around the base can often provide all the nutrients needed.

The Power of Mulch

Mulching is one of the easiest and most beneficial practices for your evergreens.

  • Moisture Retention: Mulch significantly reduces water evaporation from the soil, meaning you’ll water less often.
  • Weed Suppression: It blocks sunlight from reaching weed seeds, keeping competitive weeds at bay.
  • Temperature Regulation: Mulch insulates the soil, keeping roots cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
  • Nutrient Cycling: As organic mulches break down, they slowly release nutrients back into the soil.
  • Application: Maintain a 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch (like pine bark, wood chips, or shredded leaves) around the tree, extending to the drip line. Remember to keep it a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot and pest issues.

Pruning for Shape and Health

Pruning tall fast growing evergreen trees isn’t always about drastic cuts; it’s more about maintaining health, shape, and density. This is one of the key tall fast growing evergreen trees best practices.

  • Timing: The best time to prune most evergreens is in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges, or in mid-summer after the first flush of growth has hardened off. Avoid pruning in late fall, as new growth might not harden off before winter.
  • Remove Dead/Damaged Branches: Always remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches as soon as you notice them.
  • Shape and Density: For hedges or screens, light, annual shearing can maintain density and a desired shape. For individual specimen trees, focus on removing crossing branches or those that detract from the tree’s natural form.
  • Avoid Over-Pruning: Evergreens generally don’t regenerate from old wood as readily as deciduous trees. Avoid cutting back into bare wood if you want to maintain foliage.

Navigating Common Problems with Tall Fast Growing Evergreen Trees

Even with the best care, sometimes our green giants face challenges. Don’t worry, understanding common problems with tall fast growing evergreen trees and knowing how to address them is part of being an experienced gardener. Most issues have straightforward solutions if caught early.

Browning Needles and Dieback

This is a common concern and can be caused by several factors:

  • Drought Stress: The most frequent culprit. Insufficient water, especially during dry spells or in winter, leads to needles turning brown and dropping. Ensure deep, consistent watering.
  • Overwatering/Poor Drainage: Paradoxically, too much water can also cause browning because roots suffocate and can’t absorb oxygen or nutrients. Improve soil drainage if necessary.
  • Winter Burn: Cold, dry winds and frozen ground prevent trees from absorbing water, leading to desiccation. Protect young trees with burlap screens in exposed areas, and ensure good winter watering.
  • Nutrient Deficiencies: Yellowing or stunted growth can indicate a lack of essential nutrients. A soil test can confirm this, and appropriate fertilization can help.
  • Pests and Diseases: Certain pests (like spider mites or scale) and fungal diseases (like root rot or needle blight) can cause browning. Inspect your tree closely for signs of insects or unusual spots/growths.

Pest Infestations

While generally robust, evergreens can attract specific pests:

  • Spider Mites: Tiny pests that cause stippling (tiny dots) on needles, which may turn yellowish or bronze. Look for fine webbing. Treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
  • Aphids: Small, soft-bodied insects that feed on new growth, causing distortion. Can be hosed off with water or treated with insecticidal soap.
  • Scale Insects: Appear as small, immobile bumps on branches or needles. They suck sap, leading to yellowing and dieback. Horticultural oil can be effective.
  • Bagworms: Caterpillars that build distinctive, cone-shaped bags of silk and plant material. They defoliate trees. Hand-pick bags in winter or use appropriate insecticides for severe infestations.

Prevention is Key: Healthy, well-cared-for trees are more resistant to pests. Regular inspection helps catch issues early.

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Disease Issues

Fungal diseases are common, especially in humid conditions or with poor air circulation:

  • Root Rot: Caused by overly wet soil. Symptoms include yellowing, wilting, and eventual death. Ensure excellent drainage.
  • Needle Blight/Cast: Fungal diseases that cause needles to turn brown, often starting at the base of the tree. Improve air circulation, remove infected branches, and use fungicides if severe.
  • Canker Diseases: Fungi that cause sunken, discolored areas on branches or trunks. Prune out affected areas, sterilizing tools between cuts.

For any serious pest or disease issue, it’s always a good idea to consult with your local extension office or a certified arborist for accurate diagnosis and treatment recommendations.

Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Practices for Your Evergreen Giants

At Greeny Gardener, we believe in nurturing not just our plants, but the planet too! Embracing sustainable tall fast growing evergreen trees practices ensures your garden thrives in harmony with nature. It’s about working smarter, not harder, and creating a truly resilient landscape.

Water Conservation Techniques

Water is a precious resource. Here’s how to use it wisely:

  • Smart Irrigation: Install drip irrigation or soaker hoses which deliver water directly to the root zone, minimizing evaporation and runoff.
  • Rainwater Harvesting: Collect rainwater in barrels to use for irrigation. Your trees will love it, and your water bill will thank you.
  • Deep and Infrequent Watering: As discussed, this encourages deeper root growth, making trees more drought-tolerant over time.
  • Mulch, Mulch, Mulch: Seriously, a good layer of organic mulch is your best friend for moisture retention.

Nourishing Soil Naturally

Healthy soil is the foundation of healthy trees. Focus on feeding your soil, and it will feed your evergreens:

  • Composting: Incorporate homemade compost into your soil annually. It improves soil structure, drainage, and provides a slow release of nutrients.
  • Organic Fertilizers: If fertilization is needed, choose organic options like aged manure, bone meal, or fish emulsion. These feed the soil microbes, promoting long-term soil health.
  • Cover Cropping: In areas where you plan to plant new trees, consider growing a cover crop (like clover or vetch) to enrich the soil before planting.

Embracing Beneficial Insects and Wildlife

Creating an ecosystem where nature does the work for you is the essence of eco-friendly tall fast growing evergreen trees care.

  • Plant for Pollinators: Incorporate flowering plants around your evergreens that attract beneficial insects like ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps. These natural predators help control pests.
  • Avoid Broad-Spectrum Pesticides: These chemicals kill beneficial insects along with the pests, disrupting the natural balance. Opt for targeted, organic solutions when pest control is necessary.
  • Provide Water Sources: A bird bath or small pond can attract birds and other wildlife that help with pest control and add to your garden’s biodiversity.

Choosing Native or Adapted Species

While our top picks are generally adaptable, always consider species native to your region or those well-adapted to your specific climate. Native evergreens often require less water, fertilizer, and pest intervention because they are naturally suited to the local conditions.

By adopting these practices, you’re not just growing trees; you’re cultivating a vibrant, self-sustaining garden that benefits both you and the environment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tall Fast Growing Evergreen Trees

Let’s tackle some of the common questions we hear from fellow gardeners about these magnificent trees.

How much space do tall fast growing evergreen trees need?

This really depends on the specific species! While they grow fast, they also grow *big*. Always check the mature width of your chosen tree. For privacy screens, you’ll plant them closer, typically 5-15 feet apart, depending on the species and how quickly you want a dense screen. For individual specimen trees, allow them ample space to reach their full spread without crowding other plants or structures.

When is the best time to plant tall fast growing evergreen trees?

The ideal times are early spring or early fall. Planting in spring allows the tree to establish its roots before the stress of summer heat. Fall planting gives roots time to settle before winter dormancy, but ensure they have enough time (usually 4-6 weeks) before the ground freezes solid. Avoid planting in the heat of summer or when the ground is frozen.

Do they require a lot of pruning?

For most tall fast growing evergreens, heavy pruning isn’t typically necessary unless you’re shaping a formal hedge. Regular light pruning to remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches is usually sufficient. For privacy screens, annual light shearing can encourage density. Remember, avoid cutting back into old, bare wood on many evergreens, as they may not regenerate foliage there.

How can I tell if my evergreen is getting enough water?

The best way is to feel the soil. Stick your finger 2-3 inches into the soil around the base of the tree. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. Signs of underwatering include browning needles (especially from the tips inward) and drooping branches. Overwatering can also cause browning (often from the base of the branch outward) and a general sickly appearance, so always check the soil moisture first!

Are there any dwarf varieties of fast-growing evergreens?

While the term “tall fast growing” implies large trees, there are indeed many excellent evergreen shrubs and smaller trees that grow at a respectable rate, offering similar benefits on a smaller scale. Look for cultivars with “dwarf,” “compact,” or “slow growing” in their name. For example, some arborvitae and juniper varieties offer faster growth than typical dwarf conifers but stay much smaller than their giant cousins. Always check the mature size specified on the plant tag.

Conclusion

There you have it, fellow gardeners – a comprehensive look at the world of tall fast growing evergreen trees! From creating that much-needed privacy screen to crafting a stunning, year-round landscape, these magnificent plants offer a powerful solution for almost any garden dream.

Remember, success lies in thoughtful planning: choosing the right tree for your space and climate, planting it correctly, and then giving it the consistent, loving care it needs. Don’t be intimidated by their eventual size; embrace their potential for transformation. By following our expert guidance on selection, planting, care, and sustainable practices, you’re well on your way to enjoying the immense benefits these green giants provide.

So, take a deep breath, envision your ideal garden, and get ready to watch your landscape flourish. With a little effort and a lot of passion, you’ll soon be enjoying the instant impact and enduring beauty of your very own tall, fast-growing evergreens. Happy planting, and may your garden be ever green!

Rimon Chowdhury
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