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Cover Image for Best Trees to Plant in Utah for Shade and Privacy

Best Trees to Plant in Utah for Shade and Privacy

Lawn Care2 min read
Janae Moss
Janae Moss
Content Writer

]The best trees for shade in Utah are honeylocust, Kentucky coffeetree, and northern red oak for fast-growing shade, and Colorado blue spruce or Austrian pine for year-round privacy screens. For quick privacy, hybrid poplar grows 5-8 feet per year but is short-lived. For long-term value, plant oaks and maples that live 100+ years. Always choose trees adapted to Utah's alkaline soil, cold winters, and hot summers.

Best Shade Trees

Honeylocust: Fast (2-3 ft/yr), 40-60 ft tall, light shade lets grass grow, tolerates alkaline soil and drought. Varieties: Sunburst, Shademaster.

Northern Red Oak: Moderate (1-2 ft/yr), 50-70 ft, excellent fall color, lives 150-200 years.

Kentucky Coffeetree: Moderate (1-2 ft/yr), 50-70 ft, extremely drought-tolerant, deep roots, no pests.

Western Catalpa: Fast (2-3 ft/yr), 40-60 ft, dense shade, tolerates heat and alkaline soil.

See our guide on best wind-resistant trees for Utah.

Best Privacy Trees

Colorado Blue Spruce: Slow-moderate, 40-60 ft, native to Rockies, year-round privacy. Space 8-12 ft apart.

Austrian Pine: Moderate (1-2 ft/yr), 40-60 ft, dense dark green needles, tolerates tough sites. Space 10-15 ft apart.

Arborvitae Green Giant: Fast (3-5 ft/yr), 40-60 ft, fast evergreen screen. Space 5-8 ft apart. Needs water first 2 years.

Rocky Mountain Juniper: Slow-moderate, 20-40 ft, native Utah, extremely drought-tolerant. Varieties: Wichita Blue, Moonglow.

Trees to Avoid

Avoid silver maple (weak wood, invasive roots), birch (borer damage in Utah), willow (invasive roots, weak), and Lombardy poplar (short-lived, disease-prone).

Planting Tips for Utah

Best planting time: Spring (April-May) or fall (September-October). Dig hole 2-3 times wider than root ball. Water 10-15 gallons/week for first 2 years. Apply 2-4 inches of organic mulch. For more, see our Tree Care Essentials guide and maple tree care guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the fastest-growing shade tree for Utah?
Hybrid poplar (5-8 ft/yr, short-lived) or honeylocust (2-3 ft/yr, 80-100 year lifespan).

What evergreen grows fastest in Utah?
Arborvitae Green Giant (3-5 ft/yr). Austrian pine and blue spruce grow 1-2 ft/yr.

What trees stay small for Utah yards?
Japanese tree lilac (15-20 ft), serviceberry (15-25 ft), crabapple (15-25 ft).

Do I need to water new trees in winter?
Yes. Evergreens lose moisture all winter. Water monthly when above 40°F.

For professional tree planting and care, contact TruCo Services.