I need a suggestion for a fast growing but strong shade tree. Thanks.
Answer
It’s best to know what the soil/light/size conditions are but the following are good shade trees. Fast growing and strong (strong and fast growing don’t always go together when it comes to trees). Heritage birch (single stem) -- Betula nigra 'Heritage' grows fairly quickly, has interesting bark and should hold up. For a multi-stem birch, one of PHS's Gold Medal plants is Betula nigra ‘Cully’ Heritage®, growing 40 - 60 feet. (See link below) , also red maple which has red flowers in the spring and bright red foliage in the fall (October Glory) is a colorful variety. Honeylocust is fast growing and provides light shade. The maple may be the best choice for you. Acer rubrum `October Glory`.