Fast-Growing Shade Trees in India

Hello friends, today we are here with a new topic called "fast-growing shade trees in India", these may include fruit trees as well. Trees are a blessing to mankind in every single way and we want to start appreciating nature more. They are not only important for oxygen but also provide food and it ensures a safe environment and beautifies the world we live in. Also, tees save humans from the harmful effects of pollution and soil erosion, it cleans the air, reduces carbon footprints amongst other things. Trees provide shade during summers and cool the air during spring and also block the harsh winds during the winter season. Trees play the main role in sustaining life on this planet. Also, trees provide shade in hot summers, cool the air in the spring, and block the harsh blowing wind in the winter season. It also provides insulation.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Fast-Growing Shade Trees in India

A shade tree is a large tree whose main role is to provide shade and also it can give shelter for people and also protecting them from the sun's harmful UV rays and sunburns. So, some shade trees may be grown specifically for the comfort of the population due to their convenient shelter. Shade trees can reduce energy costs, and improve air and also water quality. Also, many of these large species offer seasonal benefits, such as flowers or a change of leaf color. Trees usually provide a home to wildlife, a place for rest for birds and squirrels. If you're in a hurry to provide shade, you'll want to plant fast-growing shade trees, which boast the height and canopy required to protect the lawn or home from the sun.

List of the Shade Giving Trees in India

Some of the Fats Growing Shade Trees in India are;

Jamun Tree of Fast-Growing Shade Trees

Jamun fruit is botanically known as Syzygium cumini. The Jamun tree has a very tall appearance and it grows to about 30 to 35 feet. Jamun tree happens to grow at a fast rate and is also amongst the easiest to grow. The Jamun fruit is widely loved and consumed. It is known to have numerous health benefits and also it is used to treat many health disorders like diabetes, indigestion, and blood pressure, etc. Jamun trees can live up to 100 years or more. At the upper parts of the Jamun, tree bark is light greyish and smooth, at the base of the tree, the bark becomes dark grey and rough. The wood of the Jamun tree is water-resistant. In different parts of India, it is also known as black plum, Indian black cherry, and Ram Jamun, etc. Jamun tree is a tall evergreen tree grown for shade and windbreak on roads and avenues. Jamun trees reach a height of 30 to 35 feet and bear fruits for 60 to 70 years after planting.

Jamun tree prefers to grow under tropical and subtropical climate. It is found to growing in lower ranges of the Himalayas up to an altitude of about 1300 meters. It requires dry weather conditions at the time off towering and fruit setting. In subtropical regions, early rain is considered to be beneficial for the ripening of fruits and the proper development of their size, color, and taste. The most commonly found variety of Jamun fruit is oblong and has a deep purple to a bluish color. The pulp of the fruit is grey to pink in color and has a seed in the center. The other Jamun variety which one can find is a seedless variety ranging in color from purple to white Gokak.

Ficus religiosa (Pipal)

The scientific name of the Pipal tree is Ficus religiosa and it belongs to Moraceae, the fig or mulberry family. It is also called the bodhi tree, peepal tree, or ashwattha tree. The Pipal tree is native to India and sacred to those of the Buddhist faith. The Pipal tree has medium-sized and has heart-shaped leaves. Pipal trees are native to India and thrive in hot, humid weather conditions. They prefer full sunlight and can grow in most soil types, though loam soil is the best. When planting Pipal, use soil with a pH level of 7 or below.

Pipal is a large, fast-growing deciduous tree and it is one of the longest living trees. It has heart-shaped leaves. It is easily propagated through the seeds or the cuttings. It can grow in any type of soil. It requires full sunlight and proper watering. The Pipal is used extensively in Ayurveda.

Arjun tree (Terminalia Arjuna)

Terminalia Arjuna is a tree of the genus Terminalia and it is commonly known as Arjuna or Arjun tree in English. The tree naturally occurs in subtropical and tropical moist regions of the country. Arjuna tree prefers alluvial loamy or black cotton soils, which are loose, moist, fertile, and have good drainage and water holding capacity. Though, riverbank soils, streams, and ravines are its natural habitat. Also, the plant survives in open sunny and low rainfall areas. The Arjun tree grows to about 20 to 25 meters tall; usually has a buttressed trunk. It has oblong and conical leaves which are green on the top and brown below; it has pale yellow color flowers which appear between March and June.

Arjun tree is common throughout India mainly in the sub-Himalayan tracts and Eastern India. It has several medicinal properties like antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial. Its fruit is dried in the sunlight and then stored for up to 6 to 12 months. Seeds are pretreated by soaking in the water for about 48 hours before sowing in beds. About 8 to 9 months seedlings are better to transplant in the field.

The tree leaves are big, sub opposite, oblong and conical. The flowering season is from April- May and the Arjuna tree is mostly found on the river banks or near dry river beds in West Bengal, South, and Central India. The tree is propagated through seeds. It takes about 7 to 8 years for the tree to mature and be used for medicinal purposes. Seeds are best sown in a polythene bag during June- July and then transferred to land for a better germination process. Though, the seedlings can be transplanted to land after a month.

Karanja

The botanical name of karanja is Millettia pinnata. It requires an annual rainfall ranging from 500 to 2500 mm with a 2 to 6 months dry period, and temperature levels between 1°C and 38°C. It is highly tolerant of salinity and alkalinity and can cultivate on seashores. Though, saline soils are thought to reduce tree nodulation and development. Karanja tree is a medium-sized evergreen or briefly deciduous tree, usually about 8 m high but that can grow to 15 to 25 meters. The trunk is straight or crooked, 50 cm in diameter, and covered with grey to greyish brown color bark, smooth or vertically fissured. The tree branches are spreading or dropping, and form a broad hemispherical crown of dark green color leaves.

Usually, the Karanja tree can be sown or propagated by branch cuttings or root suckers. Its growth is fairly slow in its early development stages, and annual weed control is necessary during the first 3 years after planting. It must be planted in blocks with 2 x 2 m or 5 x 5 m spacing. Though, it produces profuse root suckers and is not suitable as an agroforestry species. The Karanja tree starts fruiting about 4 to 7 years after planting and full production is achieved within 10 years. It can produce 0 to 30 kg seeds per year.

Kadamba tree (Anthocephalus cadamba)

Kadamba trees are suitable for avenues and parks besides reforestation programs for timber and paper. The fruit and inflorescences are reportedly edible. The scientific name of Kadamba tree is Neolamarckia cadamba. Kadam features Indian religions and mythologies. Kadamba trees also have an important place in our traditional medicines. It grows best in warm and humid climate conditions and rich loamy soil. Flowers appear from June to August.

Kadamba tree grows well in deep moist alluvial soils, often along river banks. The soil must be well-drained and should not get affected by the flood. The Kadam trees are planted about 5 x 5 m spacing during the monsoon season. To ensure a successful establishment, seedlings must be planted with their balls of earth. While closer pant spacing leads to height growth which is not preferred much by the pencil and plywood industry. Wider spacing can be adapted to have more girth and also for intercropping during the initial period of about 1-2 years.

Almond Tree of Fast-Growing Shade Trees

The Almond tree is native to the Rose family that is Rosaceae family. Almonds cultivated from the almond tree are rich in several nutrients like protein, fiber, magnesium, vitamins, and other essential nutrients. An almond tree can take as long as 5 to 12 years to start producing almonds, but a mature almond tree can produce fruit for as many as twenty-five years. The almond is a rich dry fruit variety. It is deciduous and is the first fruit to bloom at the end of the winter season.

An almond tree is a deciduous tree and the fruit is about is 3.5 to 6 cm tall. The exocarp is the outer layer and the thick, leathery coat known as the hull. Then, the hull separates from the shell and abscission layer. Almond trees grow best during mild summer and wet winters. The tree starts bearing fruit during the 3rd year from planting them. In the beginning, there is only one seed but occasionally 2 occur which is the nut. Fertile soil is a must for the growth of Almond trees. The trees must be spaced about 15 to 20 feet apart and must be irrigated often. The application of nitrogen and organic fertilizers will help to increase the growth of the tree.

Amrood Tree or Guava

Guava is also called Jamphal or Amrood. The scientific name of Guava is Psidium guajava and it is an evergreen shrub or small tree in the family Myrtaceae grown for its edible fruits. It produces solitary white flowers and berry fruit. The guava fruit is a national favorite and is obtained from a guava tree. Guava is widely available all through India and is also available all year round. Guava tree grows up to the height of almost 30 feet and is one of the easiest trees to grow and maintain. Guava tree requires well-drained soil and fertility. 

Guava is usually developed all through India for its delicious sweet fruits. Also, the Guava tree is one of the best fast-growing shade trees in India for warm climate gardens. Generally, Guava trees begin fruit production 3 to 4 years after planting and yields range from 50 to 80 lbs (23–36 kg) or more per tree per year. It does not ripen off the tree and it can be difficult to distinguish when the fruits are ready for harvest. The best indication is a color change from dark to light green color and the development of some yellowing on the fruits. Fruit must be harvested every 2-3 days to prevent fruit from becoming overripe. For best flowering and fruit production, the Guava tree needs any soil with good drainage and full sun. Guava trees are tropical to sub-tropical and can achieve 20 feet in height. They have shelter from freezing winds, even in sunny warm climates where occasional icy temperatures occur.

Neem Tree Fast-Growing Shade Trees

The neem tree is the fastest growing tree which is also known for its medicinal value. A neem tree and its leaves are used to cure several diseases and the scientific name of the Neem tree is Azadirachta indica. It is also known as neem or Indian lilac is a tree in the mahogany family Meliaceae. It is grown in tropical and semi-tropical regions. Also, Neem trees grow on islands in southern Iran.

Neem trees can reach 15 to 30 meters in height and have attractive rounded crowns and thick furrowed bark. The fruit is a smooth yellow-green color drupe and has a sweet-flavored pulp. It is famous for its medicinal values. The plant leaves and bark are all used to cure various diseases. Back when there were no medicines, Neem tee was instrumental in curing many diseases. Reaching up to heights of about 15 to 20 meters, these are undoubtedly one of the fastest ones on this list, bearing fruits between the ages of 3 to 5 years. Also, it is one of the evergreen trees in the Indian climate that can grow at all seasons. Neem tree has a fairly dense crown, which is roundish and reaches about 66 to 82 feet.

The neem tree comes under the classification of a hardy tree that can tolerate temperatures up to 50°C. The Neem tree can be grown in well-drained soil to increase its efficiency. Also, it can be grown as a plant in trays and pots and also be transplanted outdoors for about 3 months. An appropriate amount of moisture is also necessary for the proper nourishment of the tree. There must not be excessive watering as it can destroy the Neem tree. A good practice is to apply fertilizers once a month, which can improve the Neem tree’s growth tremendously.

Bamboo

Bamboos are fast-growing perennials. Bamboo is a renewable source of fuel that has a heating value comparable to that of timber from trees. A bamboo tree can reach its full maturity within 90 days after plantation.

Amla tree

Amla tree is a gift to humanity. It is a greenish-yellow fruit with 6 stripes on it. It is sweet and sour at the same time and it is loaded with all sorts of vitamins and health benefits. For growing Amla tree, well-drained and loamy to light heavy soil that is deep and rich in organic matter is required. The waterlogged and clay-rich soil is detrimental and should be avoided; the same is the case with too sandy soils.

Amla an Ayurveda medicine that is known as the gift of nature for humanity is also a fast-growing tree. It is a greenish-yellow color fruit that has six vertical stripes on it. Regular and abundant watering is essential at the young age of three. It doesn’t require regular and frequent watering once it established. Though, you can water the plant during the period of active growth or in drought-like conditions in summer. For a mature tree, watering 2 to 3 times a month in the summer season is sufficient. In any case, water stagnation should be avoided.

Indian Wild Cherry

The scientific name of Indian Wild Cherry is called Prunus avium. It is also called commonly called wild cherry or sweet cherry. The Sweet Cherry tree grows up to 15 to 32 meters tall and is one of the fastest-growing trees in India, taking just 1 year to reach its optimal height.

The leaves of the Wild Cherry are about 7 to 14 cm tall with widths varying between 1.6 to 2.8 inches. The flowers of these trees are often found to bloom in the early spring season, where the flower is about 2 to 5 cm bearing about 5 pure white petals and stamens which are yellow. Also, it bears fruit and is also eaten by birds and mammals. The flowers also pollinate through bees. The Indian Wild Cherrytree requires an enormous amount of sunshine to reach its optimum height and to grow fast, so it is recommended to keep them where there is full exposure to sunshine. The soil must be well-drained and contain a huge amount of moisture to increase its efficiency.

Peach Tree

The scientific name of the Peach tree is Prunus persica and it is a deciduous tree or shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is relatively short with slender and supple branches. The Peachtree produces pink color flowers which have 5 petals and emerge in January and February. Peach trees grow best in areas with warm summers and need summer temperature levels between 20 and 30°C (68-86°F) for the fruit to mature. The Peach tree is a fast-growing tree that takes nearly 2 to 3 years to bear fruit but some varieties can harvest after 1 year if given adequate care. The peach tree can grow as tall as 20 to 25 feet. It is an extraordinary fruit tree, which is mostly cultivated in the temperate zone in the colder region.

Apricot Tree

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Apricot is one of the fastest-growing fruit trees in India and the scientific name of Apricot is Prunus armeniaca. Apricot is rich in vitamin A and contains proteins, carbohydrates, and phosphorus. It grows fast but takes nearly 2 years to start bearing fruits. It is a deciduous tree in the family Rosaceae has grown for its edible fruit. It has an erect growth habit and a spreading canopy. The tree leaves are ovate with a rounded base, pointed tip, and serrated margin. The fruit is a drupe with skin that can be smooth or covered in tiny hairs depending on the variety and a single seed enclosed within a protective outer shell (stone).

Apricot trees thrive in climates where winters are cold enough to induce a dormancy period and summers are warm but not sweltering hot. Select a sunny location with enough room for the Apricot tree to grow. Apricot trees grow best in a full-sun environment. It requires deep watering, especially when they begin bearing fruit. To avoid over-watering apricot trees, water the trunk and base areas every 2 weeks or so, giving your trees a healthy soak.

Pear Tree

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The Pear tree is a fast-growing fruit tree that requires full sun to produce the most fruit. It takes approximately 3 to 10 years for the tree to begin flowering and bearing fruit. The pear tree is referred to as one of the most important fruit crops.