What's a good fast-growing tree to plant in Northern California?

Question

I want to plant a few trees in the front and back of my house to provide some shade and also make things look nicer. I don't like pine, oak, and fir. Rather want some deciduous tree that is fast growing and looks nice. This is in San Jose, California.

Answer 1

I live just up the road from you on the SF Peninsula.

There are hundreds of trees that will grow well in San Jose.

I recommend that you get a copy of the Sunset Western Garden Book (every library in California has a copy if you don't want to buy it). It is the size of a phone book and has lots of information that will be helpful to you. Pages 91 to 95 are a list of trees that grow well in the west. The list starts with both deciduous and evergreen patio trees (small trees with decorative flowers, fruits, foliage or bark and minimal littering), then lists small to medium trees (deciduous and evergreen) and large landscape trees (deciduous and evergreen). Each entry is cross referenced to more information on each tree (how fast they grow, how big - tall and wide -- they get, how much water they require, what soils they like, what climate is required, any bad habits the tree might possess).

Good Luck!!

Answer 2

need something for a large area (1/2 - 1 acre) that grows and spreads fast, safe around livestock, children & pets and is drought resistant - any suggestions. Northern California - Petaluma, CA

Answer 3

Fast Growing Trees Northern California

Answer 4

Juglans californica(California walnut)
A decidious tree at a medium rate.The plant is self-fertile.
Acer negundo(Box elder)
A decidious tree growing to 21m by 8m at a fast rate.
Platanus racemosa(California Sycamore)
Fast growing to 60 feet
Rest of them you can check out this site
See if it helps you out
http://www.sixriversrestoration.com/nurseryplants.html