Best Trees for Shade?

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southerncomfort

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My land currently doesn't have any hedgerows or trees, it's just wooden post and rail paddocks with the whole plot surrounded by dry stone walling.

I'm going to plant some hedging as a wind break but I'd also like to plant some trees to provide some shade. Not sure where to begin with finding something suitable though so just wondered if anyone else has planted trees for shade and which species you used..?

It's a fairly exposed site so needs to be something strong and hardy!

TIA. :)
 
Trees are so complicated with all the different ones that can have negatives for equines.

I am in stonewall country and find Rowan and Hawthorne and holly grow well, with some rubosa roses which grow faster as an underplanting, the hips benefit the wildlife. Some willows grow fast if you have a damp area.
 
Adopter said:
Trees are so complicated with all the different ones that can have negatives for equines.

I am in stonewall country and find Rowan and Hawthorne and holly grow well, with some rubosa roses which grow faster as an underplanting, the hips benefit the wildlife. Some willows grow fast if you have a damp area.
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That's really helpful, thank you! :)
 
I like hawthorn but it is slow growing whereas willows grow like weeds! Both are palatable and harmless to horses. However, willows do lose branches when they get very big so you would need a maintenance plan for them in the long run.
 
We are in a similar position to yo - very exposed at the top of the Pennines, so the prevailing wind is westerly but we were absolutely flayed by the Beast from the East this winter. We planted a mixture of hawthorn and rosa rugosa a few years ago but although they are doing well, they are taking their time about it. We have just planted some willows in the wettest parts of the boundary to try to make up for one of the wettest winters following a very wet summer that I can remember

Our plan is to weave the willow branches into each other to make a windbreak.
 
Willow is very fast growing so I'd at least give them a try if damp enough.

We've also planted birch which have reached a reasonable height after 10 years....

Fiona
 
Sounds like Willow is the best option then. Land is pretty wet so I think a Willow would like it here! Will look in to Limes and Birch too. :)

Pearlsasinger - we are in the same area so it's really helpful to hear your experiences. :)
 
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