Bringing Plants Home

Transport Tips: Keep the root ball or pot moist during transport. Avoid leaving the tree in a hot vehicle or exposed to drying winds.

 

Timing: Plant as soon as possible. If delayed, place in a shaded area and water daily.

Choosing the Right Location

Light Requirements: Most evergreens prefer full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight), though some tolerate part shade (like yews and hemlocks).

 

Spacing: Ensure enough room for the tree’s mature size:

Small varieties: 4–8 ft apart.

Medium/large: 10–25+ ft apart.

 

Purpose: Choose placement based on whether it’s for privacy, windbreak, or ornamental use.

Soil Preparation

Soil Type: Well-draining soil is key. Avoid compacted or heavy clay that stays soggy.

 

pH Level: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0) is ideal.

 

Soil Amendment: Mix compost into poor soils. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers at planting time.

Digging the Hole

Size: Dig a hole 2–3 times wider than the root ball and just as deep. Avoid planting too deep.

 

Tip: The top of the root ball should sit slightly above ground level to prevent settling.

Planting the Tree

Handling Tips: Remove any burlap, wires, or containers. Loosen roots if pot-bound.

 

Backfill: Use existing soil unless it’s very poor. Tamp gently and water halfway through to settle air pockets.

 

Mulch: Apply a 2–3" layer of mulch around the base, keeping it 4–6” from the trunk.

Watering

Initial Watering: Soak deeply after planting.

 

Ongoing Watering:

Water 1–2 times per week during the first growing season.

After establishment (1–2 years), water during extended dry spells.

 

Method: Deep, infrequent watering encourages deep root systems.

Feeding & Fertilizing

When to Fertilize: Wait 4–6 weeks after planting or fertilize in early spring.

 

What to Use: Use a balanced evergreen fertilizer or organic options like composted manure.

 

Frequency: Once in spring; avoid fertilizing late in the season, which can encourage tender growth before winter.

Staking

When Needed: Stake only if the site is windy or the tree is top-heavy.

 

How to Stake: Use two stakes and soft ties. Allow slight movement. Remove stakes after 1 year.

Pest & Disease Monitoring

Common Pests: Spruce budworm, adelgids, spider mites, sawflies.

 

Common Diseases: Needle cast, root rot (in soggy soils), tip blight.

 

Prevention Tips:

Keep area around the base clean.

Ensure good air circulation between trees.

Inspect regularly and treat early with appropriate horticultural sprays or insecticidal soap.

Pruning

When to Prune: Late winter or early spring, before new growth starts.

 

Why Prune: Shape the tree, remove damaged or dead branches, and maintain size.

How: Avoid cutting into the “dead zone” of needleless interior branches (especially on spruce, pine, and fir).

Seasonal Care

Spring: Fertilize, prune, inspect for winter damage.

 

Summer: Water deeply during dry periods.

 

Fall: Mulch and water well before freeze-up.

 

Winter: Protect young trees and avoid physical damage from snow, ice, or critters.

Winter Protection

For Young Trees:

Wrap with burlap in exposed areas to prevent windburn or sunscald.

Water thoroughly in fall before ground freezes.

 

Snow & Ice: Gently brush off heavy snow. Avoid knocking off ice—it can break branches.

 

Salt Sensitivity: Avoid planting near roads or driveways where salt is used, or protect with burlap barriers.

Helpful Extras

Deer Resistance: Many evergreens (like juniper and spruce) are less palatable to deer; yews and cedars may need protection.

 

Low Maintenance: Once established, most evergreens are drought-tolerant and need little care beyond watering in dry periods.

 

Longevity: With proper care, evergreens can live for decades and offer year-round beauty, privacy, and wind protection.