Tree of the Month – Evergreens

This month, we’ll focus on not just one tree but a group of trees – the Evergreens.

Evergreens are a family of trees that have foliage that stays green year round.

The foliage stays on the tree all year, even in the cold and dry season.

Deciduous trees, such as maples & oaks, shed their leaves but  evergreens do not. Evergreens are diverse and can grow in all types of climates from very cold to super hot so this family has lots of options for landscaping no matter where you live!

The dense and long lasting foliage on evergreens make them an excellent option if you want more privacy from your neighbors.  They can provide some sound proofing too.

Another benefit of evergreens, especially in New England, is that they are able to block harsh winds and snow drifts.

Their hardiness also serves them well in the summer, especially when it comes to your well and water bill, because they use water more efficiently than many other trees!

Some common examples of evergreens that you may be familiar with are Blue Spruces, White Pines, Firs, Western Redcedars, Eastern Hemlocks, Rhododendrons and Redwoods.   Here[s a site  https://www.arborday.org/trees/(one of our favorites) where you can take a look at these evergreen trees and more,  and buy them too when you’re ready for planting.

 

If you’re looking for a good (and tall!) hedge style evergreen, I’d point you towards the Thuja Green Giant. This evergreen is very dense, is an incredibly fast grower, is super hardy to withstand harsh New England winters, and finally; can reach a full 60 ft tall! Unless your neighbor is a giant, you won’t need to worry about anyone peaking past that hedge!  https://www.fast-growing-trees.com/products/thuja-green-giant

For something a bit smaller and good for a swampy yard, you could also check out the Eastern Red Cedar.  These are a bit smaller at 40 to 50 ft naturally, but likely smaller when kept in a yard.a

 

What is THIS????

However, if you’re looking for a truly strange evergreen, check out the most wild evergreen I’ve ever seen… the Welwitschia Mirabilis!

 

This crazy plant is native to Namib Desert. These squat plants are actually easily grown even as houseplants but wouldn’t do well outside in New England, that’s for sure!

One of the unique features of this plant is that it only grows two leaves that get larger throughout its entire life. However, the leaves do split into segments due to their size and the weather. The Welwitschia Mirabilis is also a staple in the diets of many animals including antelopes and zebras!

It may not be what you want to plant, but it’s definitely interesting to check out.

Be sure to take a look at https://www.arborday.org  where you’ll be able to see, learn about, and order the perfect Evergreen for you.

We Love Trees!