When it comes to landscaping in the Midwest, selecting shrubs that not only thrive in the region’s at times extreme weather but also grow quickly can transform your garden or landscaping into a lush, vibrant space in no time. With varying conditions such as cold winters, hot summers, and varying soil types, choosing the right shrubs is crucial. Here, we delve into some of the fastest-growing shrubs suited for the Midwest, helping you make informed decisions for a stunning garden.
The Benefits Of Fast-Growing Shrubs
Fast-growing shrubs offer numerous advantages for Midwest gardens and landscaping. These shrub species can provide nearly instant privacy, enhance curb appeal, and quickly fill in empty spaces. These shrubs are also beneficial for creating windbreaks and reducing soil erosion. By selecting fast-growing varieties, you can achieve a mature look in a shorter period, saving you time and effort in maintaining and nurturing your garden.
So if you’d like to quickly improve your home’s appearance, or if you want to add more green to your environment without waiting for years, consider the following species of shrubs.
The Forsythia
Forsythias are renowned for their brilliant yellow blooms that signal the arrival of spring. This deciduous shrub can grow up to three feet per year under optimal conditions, making it a popular choice for rapid coverage. Forsythias thrive in full sun to partial shade and prefer well-drained soil. Its fast growth rate and striking flowers make it ideal for hedges and borders.
Red Twig Dogwood
The Red Twig Dogwood is another excellent choice for homeowners interested in transforming their landscaping in a short period of time. Known for its striking red stems that add color to winter landscapes, this shrub can grow up to two feet annually. It performs well in a variety of soil types and is highly adaptable. This shrub also offers a dense, multi-stemmed structure that makes it perfect for privacy screens or ornamental plantings.
Amur Privet
The Amur Privet is a versatile shrub that grows quickly, growing as much as three to four feet per year. This growth rate, along with its dense foliage make it a popular choice for creating formal hedges, windbreaks, noise buffers and natural privacy “walls.” Amur Privet is also adaptable to different soil types and is tolerant of both sun and partial shade. Its lush foliage and rapid growth make it a favorite for privacy and security.
Spiraea
Spiraea Japonica, commonly known as Japanese Spiraea, is a fast-growing shrub that produces brilliant clusters of pink or white flowers in summer. It can grow up to two feet per year and is well-suited for a wide range of soil conditions. Its attractive blooms and dense growth habit make it a great addition to flower beds and as a border shrub.
Ninebark
Ninebark is a hardy shrub that offers both rapid growth and ornamental appeal. With its unique peeling bark and colorful clusters of white to pink flowers, it can grow up to two feet annually. Ninebark thrives in full sun to partial shade and adapts well to the varying soil conditions found in Missouri and the Midwest. Its fast growth and aesthetic value make it a great – and uncommon – choice for adding texture and color to your garden.
Optimize Growth With Proper Planting And Care Of Your Shrubs
Selecting shrub species that tend to grow quickly is just the first step in rapidly transforming the look of your home’s landscaping. To ensure your shrubs reach their full potential as quickly as possible, proper planting and care are essential. With that in mind, focus on:
- Soil Preparation: Before planting, ensure the soil is well-drained and enriched with organic matter. Conduct a soil test if needed to adjust pH levels and nutrient content.
- Watering: Newly planted shrubs require regular watering until they establish roots. Once established, most fast-growing shrubs are relatively drought-tolerant but will benefit from occasional watering during dry spells.
- Fertilization: Applying the right products at the right time, the right way is a key to optimizing the strength and growth rate of your shrubs. It’s best to consult with a certified arborist to get the best possible results.
- Pruning: Regular pruning helps maintain the shape of your shrubs and encourages healthy growth. Remove any dead or damaged branches and trim back overgrown areas to promote new growth.
Finally, Choose The Right Shrubs For Your Space
While fast-growing shrubs offer numerous benefits, selecting the right shrub for your specific soil, light and weather conditions is crucial. Consider factors such as sun exposure, soil type, and space availability. For example, if you need a hedge for a shady area, Forsythia might not be the best choice. Conversely, Red Twig Dogwood is well-suited for both sunny and partly shaded locations.
Make The Right Choice – Consult With The Experts At Hansen’s Tree Service Today!
Our certified arborists and plant care specialists are experts in evaluating your home’s soil conditions, exposure to light, and other factors and then considering your tastes and objectives. They can then make recommendations as to which shrubs will thrive around your home and give your landscaping a makeover as quickly as possible.
Contact us today and let our insured, experienced professionals take care of all your tree-related needs!