Which Trees Are Great for Shade in Summer?

There is no doubt that summer is one of the best seasons of the year, especially for trees that are in desperate need of rich sunlight. However, too much sunlight in your yard can cause excess exposure to heat that can not only damage our skin but our yard as well! If you’re considering planting trees on your residential or commercial property in the Springfield, IL area, our team at Custom Taylor’d Lawn & Landscape has come up with the perfect selection of trees to choose from that offer the perfect shade for hot summer days. Here are the top 4 trees that are not only gorgeous, but that offer maximum shade for properties that need a little extra coverage!

California Sycamores

California Sycamores are the tallest trees on our list, growing up to be 80 feet tall with at least a 12-foot radius. If you are looking for a large tree to take up space in your yard and provide an ample amount of shade, these trees are a perfect choice! Not only do California Sycamores grow quickly, but they can withstand even the harshest weather conditions, making them a great option for your Midwest property. Due to the thick roots that come with this giant shady tree, our team at Custom Taylor’d Lawn & Landscape in Springfield, IL recommends not planting your California Sycamore near a street or sidewalks, but in a wide-open space.

Northern Red Oaks

A Northern Red Oak is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful trees to have on your property. Not only are they known for their vibrant orange, red, and yellow leaves, but they perfect at providing the right amount of shade on a hot summer day. These trees can grow to be 75 feet tall and with full-grown branches, can produce a spread of around 45 feet! Northern Red Oaks is perfect for both residential and commercial Midwest properties due to their ability to grow in just about any weather and soil condition. If you’re looking for a tree that provides shade and curb appeal for your property in Springfield, IL, these are one of the best choices on the market.

Tulip Trees

Just like the Northern Red Oak, Tulip trees are rapidly growing and can get to be at least 70 feet tall with an impressive spread of 40 feet. Known for their gorgeous flower-like leaves and colors, Tulip trees are great shade casters and thrive in full or partial sunlight, making them a great choice if your property is located in a particularly sunny spot. At Custom Taylor’d Lawn & Landscape, we recommend planting your Tulip tree with enough room so that their massive branches can extend their full length without needing to be pruned when grown. You can expect your Tulip tree to stay perfectly shady and in bloom throughout the Spring and well into the Fall.

Weeping Willows

Even if you’re not an expert like our staff at Custom Taylor’d Lawn & Landscape in Springfield, IL, we guarantee that you can easily identify a Weeping Willow. Known for their long and droopy branches, Weeping Willow trees are one of the best trees to plant if you are wanting constant shade in the Spring and Summer months. While only growing to be about 40 feet tall with a spread of about 35 feet, these trees are perfect for partially sunny areas, and especially those that are close to a small body of water like a pond or stream. Although Weeping Willows require a little more attention than the others, having to water them at least once a week for the first year after planting, they are without a doubt one of the best trees for shade and curb appeal. Call us today at (217) 306-4215 and have a Weeping Willow planted on your residential or commercial property!