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Questions about fast growing, shady, deciduous fruit tree

7 years ago
last modified: 7 years ago

I am in Fremont, in the Bay area of California (zone 9B) and have a 40'x40' central area in full sun in the backyard, which is devoid of anything but soil right now. We are solarizing it over the summer, with the intention of putting in some turf in it in late summer/early fall, but also wanted to plant a tree in the center. Ideally, this tree would be relatively fast growing, leaf out in the summer enough to give some shade, but be deciduous so that we can still enjoy the winter sun. (I realize that the grass is not going to grow well under it, and we are okay with that, as long as we have some on the periphery.)

I've been thinking of a Pakistan Mulberry tree, because my husband and I LOVE the fruit, and two of my three children do too. I understand it is going to be a messy tree, and I'm okay with that. (There's going to be hopefully 10-15' of grass, and then 10' of patio between the tree and the entrance into the house, with hose access on the patio.) I looked at some large Pakistan Mulberry trees at the nursery today (8-10') that looked suitable, and already had yummy fruit on it.

I just want to think this through and make sure that I am not overlooking something major. Are the roots going to be invasive? Do they attract some kind of diseases or pests that I should know about.

Lastly, what other trees could I be considering? I like the idea of a fruit tree, since it will do double duty, but another deciduous, fast-growing, shade tree might work too. Any tips or guidance will be much appreciated.

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