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Shade tree recommendation #872526

Asked June 10, 2024, 9:47 PM EDT

I live in Apple Valley MN and I'm looking for a recommendation for a tree to provide shade from the afternoon sun on my patio. I'm a little limited on space, there is only about 12 feet between the west side of my patio and the fence at the edge of my property. What tree would you recommend for maximizing shade in this situation?

Dakota County Minnesota

Expert Response

Hi Mason,

Here are some suggestions;

Nannyberry  https://trees.umn.edu/nannyberry-viburnum-lentago

Wild Plum https://trees.umn.edu/american-plum-prunus-americana-0

Common Chokecherry https://trees.umn.edu/chokecherry-prunus-virginiana

Crabapple https://trees.umn.edu/crabapple-malus-spp

Dura Heat River Birch ( this is relatively new and a hybrid bread to withstand our hotter summers, I have no experience with it) https://www.fast-growing-trees.com/products/dura-heat-river-birch?variant=<personal data hidden>716

Sour Cherry tree (edible) https://mnhardy.umn.edu/cherries

Those are some ideas. It is going to take a while for anything to get big enough to provide some shade. In the mean time I would get an umbrella or shade cloth so you can enjoy your patio.

Sally Granath

St. Louis County MG

An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 12, 2024, 9:48 PM EDT

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