Landscaping covers an array of different features when it comes to gardening, including flower beds, fences, walkways, fountains and much more.
In particular, evergreen trees are a must-have when it comes to landscaping. They offer a vibrant display of rich, green-coloured foliage that can be greatly enjoyed through every season, but especially during the long winter months. Throughout the year, evergreens can provide beautiful blossoms, delicious fruit, and a shelter for wildlife, as well as protecting your landscape from the varying weather conditions.
There are many factors to consider when choosing the right evergreen tree for your garden. Consider how tall and wide you would like the evergreen to grow, the speed you would like it to grow, and the purpose for your choice of evergreen tree. Evergreen trees vary greatly, so read below to find out about the top five out of many evergreen trees for landscaping.
1. Leyland Cypress (Cupressocyparis leylandii)
Growth Rate: Up to 3 or 4 feet per year
Location: Full sun to partial shade
The Leyland Cypress is an excellent, exceptionally fast-growing evergreen which will thrive in most conditions. The perfect evergreen if you are looking for an upright hedge that is easy to maintain with its soft foliage. It can grow to be around 50 feet in 15 years.
2. Thuja Green Giant (Thuja standishii x plicata)
Growth Rate: Up to 3 feet per year
Location: Full sun to 50% shade
The Thuja Green Giant provides an excellent, exceptionally fast-growing evergreen for homeowners looking for privacy, beauty, and easy care and maintenance. This exceptional evergreen is also perfect for protection from all weather conditions and elements. This evergreen can grow as tall as 20 feet in just a few years.
3. Columnar Blue Atlas Cedar (Cedrus atlantica ‘Glauca Fastigiata’)
Growth Rate: Up to 1 foot per year
Location: Full sun
The Columnar Blue Atlas Cedar is a beautiful, tall evergreen tree which can be grown as a grand backdrop to any landscape or driveway. This fast-growing evergreen is narrower than other cedar trees as branches grow upwards and can grow as tall as 15 feet within 10 years.
4. Ponderosa Pine (Pinus ponderosa)
Growth Rate: Up to 1 foot per year
Location: Full sun
The Ponderosa Pine is a large, native tree of North America, and is an excellent choice for a larger landscape, usually growing to at least 12 feet tall. This style of evergreen is suited to and most frequently grown in more relaxed spaces, such as along the coast or in the countryside.
5. Castle Wall ® Blue Holly (Ilex x meserveae)
Growth Rate: Up to 2 feet per year
Location: Full sun to partial shade
The Castle Wall ® Blue Holly is an ideal choice for hedging, usually growing anywhere from 6 feet to 15 feet tall, and around 3 feet wide. This wonderful evergreen can be left to branch out as a hedge, or delicately trimmed and displayed to suit your taste.
The type of evergreen you choose for your garden will depend on your individual needs. Make sure you consider your options carefully and reach out to experts for advice if needed.
