what tree to choose as grow-your-own Armco?

[noco]

Traffic is becoming more brutal every day.

What trees would you plant as a quick growing crash barrier?

We are looking for a  variety that forms a sturdy trunk asap.  They will have to withstand pruning to keep them under control.
We have grown Lombardy Poplars already, but naturally pruning does stunt the rate of growth somewhat. 

Any advice as to what would be the would  the best time prune?

 

Thank you in advance.

[Steve Bullman]

Nothings going to grow a sturdy trunk anytime soon if it’s being regularly pruned. Trunks put on girth to support what’s above it. Poplar probably would have been a good bet, you just needed to let them grow without pruning till the trunks reached the required diameter 

[Khriss]

Concretus bollardiis a popular choice, salt tolerant and good autumn color.   Shade tolerant and more effective in linear locations. K

[doobin]

3 minutes ago, Dan Maynard said:

I'd say you don't want sturdy trunks, that will stop a vehicle in one hit. Better lots of small trunks so it gradually slows, less impact force on the occupants.

I get the feeling OP isn't too worried about the occupants 🤣

[scbk]

Take your pick. 

[Mick Dempsey]

I have found holly to be a very hard to uproot with a digger.

[Dan Maynard]

I'd say you don't want sturdy trunks, that will stop a vehicle in one hit. Better lots of small trunks so it gradually slows, less impact force on the occupants.

[Stere]

Maclura pomifera just to try something different

 

Maclura pomifera - Osage Orange or Monkey Ball Tree (50-70cm)

JURASSICPLANTS.CO.UK

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Description Specification Gift wrap This small tree or large shrub is used as a hedge in the United States but it can also...

 

 

 

[Conor Wright]

Half Bury a row of 20cm+ diameter lengths of sweet chestnut, western red cedar, douglas fir etc at 1 mtr centres and plant a hedge of your choice in between? Best of both worlds

[dumper]

If it’s damp go for crack willow 

[Doug Tait]

32 minutes ago, scbk said:

Take your pick. 

That's a Glastonbury festival map.