How To Take Care Of Evergreen Trees
Evergreen trees are famous and well-known for their needle-like leaves that stay green throughout the year. They are mostly found in colder climates and can range in size from very small shrubs to massive trees. Some of the most popular evergreen trees include pine, fir, and spruce trees.
While these trees are commonly known for being low-maintenance, there are still some basic things you need to do in order to keep them healthy and looking their best. We recommend you buy your trees at Gardeners Dream for the best quality. With these trees and a little bit of care, your evergreen trees will be thriving in no time!
Here are some tips on how to take care of evergreen trees:
- Firstly, it is important to choose the right location for your evergreen tree. They prefer full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil. This being said, they are pretty adaptable and can often survive in less-than-ideal conditions.
- When planting, make sure to dig a hole that is twice the width of the tree’s root ball – but no deeper. This will help encourage strong root growth and prevent the tree from becoming waterlogged.
- Water your evergreen tree regularly, especially when it is first planted. Once established, they are relatively drought tolerant but will still need extra water during periods of extended dry weather. Keep in mind that evergreen trees have shallow roots, so be careful not to overwater.
- Fertilise your evergreen tree once a year in early spring using a balanced fertiliser such as 10-10-10. Be sure to follow the directions on the package for the best results.
- Prune your evergreen tree as needed to remove dead or damaged branches and to encourage new growth. Pruning requires special care so if you are unsure, it is best to hire a professional. When done incorrectly, it can damage the tree.
- Watch out for pests and diseases that could affect your evergreen tree. Common problems include aphids, scale insects, and root rot. If you notice any of these issues, be sure to contact a professional for help.
- Finally, don’t forget to mulch! Mulching helps to retain moisture, prevent weed growth, and protect the tree’s roots from extreme temperatures.
Some other things to note:
- Squirrels and other rodents may try to bury nuts in the soil around evergreen trees. This can damage the tree’s roots so be sure to discourage this behaviour where possible.
- Evergreen trees are susceptible to wind damage so it is important to choose a location that is sheltered from strong winds.
- Balsam fir, Fraser fir, and Douglas fir trees are particularly popular choices for Christmas trees. If you plan on cutting down your own tree, be sure to do so early in the season before the sap starts to run.
- Evergreen trees make great privacy screens or windbreaks. When planting in a row, space the trees about 8 feet apart. This will give them room to grow and fill in the gaps over time.
We hope this guide was helpful in teaching you how to take care of evergreen trees. With a little bit of effort, you can keep your trees healthy and looking great all year round!