When is the best time to plant evergreen trees in the UK?

The best time to plant evergreen trees in the UK is in early autumn or early spring, when the weather and soil conditions are not at their extremes, which could stress a young plant. Planting in moist, warm soil is best, so make sure your ground isn't waterlogged or frozen. If the area is exposed, shelter the young tree from the wind to help it establish. You might need to use a stake to do this.

What soil and light conditions do evergreen trees need?

Evergreen trees grow best in well-drained, acidic soil and full sun or partial shade. If you're new to growing evergreen trees or aren't sure which area would be most suitable, put a small tree in a pot with good-quality soil and move it around your garden to see where it thrives best.

How do I care for an evergreen tree after planting?

After planting, evergreen trees need deep, regular watering during the first year, especially during dry spells. This is because evergreens lose moisture from their leaves and can easily suffer from drought stress. Apply mulch around the base to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature, but keep it away from the trunk. Stake the tree if the wind is strong or the area is exposed. Light feeding in spring will also support strong root development.

Which evergreen tree types are best for small gardens?

Compact, slow-growing evergreen trees are suitable for small gardens, as they don't take up a huge footprint and won't encroach other areas quickly. Some evergreen trees can also be grown in pots, helping gardeners maintain tight control over their size.

How far from property boundaries, walls or neighbours should I plant an evergreen tree?

How far you plant evergreen trees away from boundaries, buildings or property lines depends on the variety you've chosen. Each type of evergreen tree has a different footprint, with the largest requiring up to 10 metres of space surrounding it, and the smallest only requiring around three. However, it's important to consider spacing, as roots or branches could start to encroach in areas they shouldn't as they grow.

Evergreen Trees

Embrace Permanent Beauty With Evergreen Trees

Lush, green and full of life in every season, evergreen trees form the background of landscapes with their bold, strong presence. From compact, potted varieties to tall, planted types, evergreen trees can play a number of roles in your garden. Evergreen trees retain their leaves year-round, only dropping once fresh, new ground emerges. This makes them ideal for use as natural screen or section marker, adding privacy and delineation to your space. Their thick, closely growing leaves also offer wind protection to outdoor seating areas or borders containing delicate plants or flowers.

Attractive to wildlife as well as gardeners, the interest of flowering varieties changes with the seasons. Watch bees and butterflies enjoy the blue blooms of Californian Lilacs while you breathe in their beautiful springtime fragrance. Join the birds by using the thick-growing Portuguese Laurel as shelter from the wind, shade from the sun and privacy from prying eyes. Potted varieties such as Lavender Anouk adds fragrance, colour and structure.
Depending on your garden's soil conditions and the chosen planting space, there's a variety to suit all growing conditions. Careful planting and positioning will give young trees the support they need to flourish. Once established, your evergreen trees will help give your landscape year-round interest.