by Rex Trulove

Created on: August 10, 2008

With a little pre-planning and a bit of initial effort, there are few trees that require less constant care than an evergreen. They are hardy, can grow in rocky soil, and once they are established, they require less water than most other trees. Yet since there are so many kinds of pines, firs, hemlocks, and other evergreens, it usually isn't difficult to find the perfect fit for the yard.

Begin by preparing the soil. Evergreen trees prefer slightly acidic soil, and while they grow readily in rocky dirt, it is best to allow the sapling to have decently rock free ground to get established in. The soil doesn't need to be rich, and in fact, most evergreens do best in poorer dirt. However, for maximum and healthiest growth, there should be plenty of room for the roots.

Roots of evergreens tend to grow down rather than spreading out greatly like those of oaks or maples. While they can grow in shallow ground, this usually results in the tree becoming stunted, a trait often used in Bonsai. Shallow soil also makes the tree more susceptible to pests and weather, since the roots are much closer to the surface. What is more, they are less stable, so strong winds can easily blow them over.

Once a hole is dug and prior to planting the tree, it is a good idea to fill the hole with water to allow the soil to be moist for the sapling. Once the ground has soaked up the water, place the sapling in the hole and firmly pack dirt around it. Care should be taken to make sure that the tree roots are buried to a point just above the root ball. If the tree is planted too deep, the trunk can rot out, and if it is planted too shallow, the roots won't be adequately protected. No fertilizer is necessary.

Evergreen saplings usually have a long taproot. The taproot should not be coiled or cramped. If the sapling is large, one person can hold it while another begins filling the hole so the taproot gets buried from the bottom to the top, evenly.

One consideration that is important in the selection of which evergreen to grow is the local climate. While evergreens require little moisture once they are established, in general, firs and hemlocks need more moisture and cooler temperatures than do pines. This means that while pines will grow even in humid areas, as long as the soil drains well enough that the roots don't get waterlogged, firs would be a better choice in a cool and humid place. On the other hand, pines grow well in hotter and drier areas.

Besides their heartiness, evergreen trees can add beauty to a yard. They also make an effective wind and privacy screen. Since, with the exception of the Larch, they retain their needles all year, their screening qualities aren't lost during the winter months either. In addition, since the roots grow down rather than out, the trees can be planted closer together.

Considering the small amount of effort needed for growing evergreen trees, they are an excellent choice for planting.

Learn more about this author, Rex Trulove.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.