What Is The Best Evergreen To Plant Near A House?

Understanding the Importance of Evergreens

When it comes to landscaping, evergreens are invaluable assets, providing a year-round foundation of lush greenery and architectural interest. These hardy plants retain their foliage throughout the seasons, offering privacy, windbreaks, and aesthetic appeal that belies their low maintenance requirements.

Considerations for Choosing the Ideal Evergreen

Several factors come into play when selecting the best evergreen for planting near a house:

• Size and Shape: Determine the desired height and spread of the tree, ensuring it won’t obstruct windows or utility lines.
• Growth Rate: Consider the rate at which the evergreen will grow, opting for a slow- to moderate-growing species to minimize excessive pruning.
• Soil and Drainage: Choose an evergreen that thrives in the soil type and drainage conditions of your property.
• Climate Zone: Select a species that is well-adapted to the climate zone in which you reside.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Choose an evergreen with a foliage color, texture, and shape that complements the architectural style of your home.

Best Evergreen Choices for Planting Near a House

Based on the considerations above, the following evergreen species are highly recommended for planting near a house:

Eastern Redcedar (Juniperus virginiana)

• Size: 20-50 feet tall, 10-20 feet wide
• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate
• Soil: Adaptable to various soil types
• Climate Zone: 2-9

Eastern Redcedar is an evergreen conifer known for its pyramidal shape, aromatic foliage, and reddish-brown berries. It is drought-tolerant and disease-resistant.

Leyland Cypress (x Cupressocyparis leylandii)

• Size: 50-70 feet tall, 20-30 feet wide
• Growth Rate: Fast
• Soil: Prefers well-drained soil
• Climate Zone: 6-10

Leyland Cypress is a fast-growing evergreen tree with a dense, columnar habit. It is wind-tolerant and provides excellent screening.

Emerald Green Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Emerald Green’)

• Size: 10-15 feet tall, 3-5 feet wide
• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate
• Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil
• Climate Zone: 2-8

Emerald Green Arborvitae is a popular evergreen shrub with a conical shape and rich green foliage. It is deer-resistant and tolerates partial shade.

Holm Oak (Quercus ilex)

• Size: 50-80 feet tall, 30-50 feet wide
• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate
• Soil: Adaptable to various soil types, prefers well-drained
• Climate Zone: 8-10

Holm Oak is an evergreen tree with a spreading habit and leathery, dark green leaves. It is heat- and drought-tolerant, making it a suitable choice for warmer climates.

Japanese Holly (Ilex crenata)

• Size: 3-8 feet tall, 3-6 feet wide
• Growth Rate: Slow
• Soil: Prefers acidic, well-drained soil
• Climate Zone: 5-9

Japanese Holly is an evergreen shrub with dense, glossy green leaves. It is slow-growing and can be pruned to create topiaries or hedges.

Planting and Care Tips

When planting an evergreen near a house, it is crucial to:

• Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and as deep as the root ball.
• Amend the soil with compost or organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
• Place the evergreen in the hole and backfill with soil, gently tamping down around the base.
• Water deeply after planting and continue to water regularly, especially during the first growing season.
• Mulch around the base to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
• Prune as needed to maintain the desired shape and size.

Conclusion

Evergreens are a versatile addition to any home landscape, offering year-round greenery, privacy, and aesthetic appeal. By carefully considering the factors outlined above and choosing an appropriate species, you can enjoy the beauty and benefits of these hardy plants for many years to come.

Questions and Answers

1. Q: What is the most commonly planted evergreen tree near houses?
   A: Eastern Redcedar is a popular choice due to its adaptability, growth rate, and aromatic foliage.

2. Q: Can I plant an evergreen in partial shade?
   A: Yes, certain evergreens, such as Emerald Green Arborvitae, can tolerate partial shade conditions.

3. Q: How long after planting an evergreen should I start pruning?
   A: It is generally recommended to wait 1-2 years after planting before performing major pruning. However, light pruning can be performed as needed to remove dead or damaged branches.

4. Q: How can I protect an evergreen from winter damage?
   A: Mulching around the base of the tree, providing windbreaks, and wrapping young trees with burlap or frost cloth can help protect them from extreme winter conditions.

5. Q: What are some common pests and diseases that can affect evergreens?
   A: Common pests include aphids, scale, and spider mites. Common diseases include needle blight and root rot. Proper care and maintenance practices can help prevent or mitigate these issues.