Fast Growing Evergreen Trees: Planting, Fertilizing, Care, and More

Fast Growing Evergreen Trees for Privacy

If you're looking to add shade, privacy, or simply some greenery to your yard, evergreen trees are a great choice. Not only do they provide year-round foliage, but they also grow quickly, adding value to your property in a relatively short amount of time. 

In this article, we'll explore some of the best fast-growing evergreen trees, as well as offer tips on planting, fertilizing, care, maintenance, pruning, winter, and drought.

Planting Evergreen Trees

Before you start planting evergreen trees, you need to choose the right location. Most evergreens prefer full sun, although some, such as yews, can tolerate shade. You also want to make sure that the soil is well-draining, as most evergreens don't like to sit in water.

When it comes to planting, the best time is usually in the fall, when the soil is still warm but the weather is cooler. This gives the roots time to establish themselves before the winter sets in. However, if you live in a mild climate, you can plant evergreens in the spring or even in the winter.

To plant an evergreen tree, dig a hole that's two to three times wider than the root ball and about the same depth. Gently remove the tree from its container and loosen any circling roots. Place the tree in the hole and backfill it with soil, making sure to tamp it down firmly. Water thoroughly.

Fertilizing Evergreen Trees

Evergreen trees need nutrients to grow, but they don't need as much fertilizer as other types of trees. In fact, too much fertilizer can actually harm them. A good rule of thumb is to fertilize once a year in the spring, using a slow-release fertilizer.

When applying fertilizer, be sure to follow the instructions on the package carefully. Overfertilizing can lead to root burn and other problems, so it's better to err on the side of caution. Also, be sure to water the tree thoroughly after applying fertilizer to help it absorb the nutrients.

Caring for Evergreen Trees

One of the most important things you can do to care for your evergreen trees is to water them regularly. Most evergreens prefer moist soil, although they don't like to be waterlogged. During dry spells, be sure to water deeply once a week, rather than giving the tree a light watering every day.

Another important aspect of caring for evergreen trees is pruning. Most evergreens don't require much pruning, but you may need to trim back any dead or damaged branches. You can also shape the tree if you want to create a specific look. Just be sure to use sharp, clean pruning shears and to make cuts at a 45-degree angle.

Maintaining Evergreen Trees

Evergreen trees are relatively low-maintenance, but there are a few things you can do to keep them looking their best. For example, you may want to mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Just be sure not to pile the mulch up against the trunk, as this can lead to rot.

You may also want to stake your evergreen tree if it's in a windy location. This will help it establish a strong root system and prevent it from toppling over.

Finally, be on the lookout for pests and diseases. Common evergreen pests include spider mites, scale insects, and bagworms. If you notice any signs of infestation, such as yellowing or browning foliage, or small webs or bumps on the tree, take action immediately. In some cases, you may need to use an insecticidal soap or oil to control the pests.