Evergreen trees add year-round beauty to any landscape, providing greenery and structure even in the coldest months. In Minnesota’s challenging climate, selecting and nurturing evergreens requires careful consideration. Here’s your comprehensive guide to successfully growing evergreen trees in Minnesota.
Choosing the Right Species
Here are a couple of Evergreen trees that work in Minnesota:
White Spruce (Picea glauca)
Known for its adaptability to cold climates, the white spruce thrives in Minnesota’s harsh winters. It boasts dense foliage and a classic conical shape, making it an excellent choice for windbreaks and privacy screens. The Weeping White Spruce (Picea glauca) has nice blue-green foliage that hugs the trunk, sweeping downward to create a fantastic impression. This evergreen prefers sun or light shade and rich moist soil but is adaptable. This evergreen is the perfect accent tree for defining lawn areas or walkways.
Northern Blue Limber Pine (Pinus flexilis)
The Northern Blue Limber Pine (Pinus flexilis) is celebrated for its captivating blue-green needles that bring a cool and serene presence to any landscape. With its flexible branches and picturesque form, this resilient pine species is a versatile choice for gardens, parks, and natural settings. Its adaptability to different climates and soil conditions adds to its allure, making it an excellent option for those seeking a distinctive and visually appealing tree for their outdoor spaces.
Brandon Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis)
The Brandon Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Brandon’) is a favored landscaping option appreciated for its elegant, narrow form and dense, vibrant green foliage that retains its color year-round. This evergreen shrub requires minimal maintenance and adapts well to different soil and climate conditions, making it versatile for borders, hedges, or focal points in gardens. Its compact size and tidy growth are ideal for urban or smaller yards, providing attractive greenery and structure with ease.
See All of Applewood Nursery & Landscape Supply’s Selection of Evergreen Trees Here!
Planting and Care Tips
Site Selection
Choose a location with adequate sunlight and well-drained soil. Avoid low-lying areas prone to frost accumulation, as this can damage young evergreen trees.
Planting Technique
Dig a hole slightly wider and shallower than the tree’s root ball. Gently remove the tree from its container and place it in the center of the hole. Backfill with soil, ensuring the tree is planted at the same depth as it was in the container.
Watering
Newly planted evergreens require regular watering, especially during dry spells. Provide deep, thorough watering to encourage healthy root development.
Mulching
Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Be sure to leave a gap between the mulch and the trunk to prevent rot.
Pruning
Prune evergreen trees selectively to maintain their shape and remove any dead or diseased branches. Avoid heavy pruning, as this can stress the tree and hinder growth.
Winter Protection
Anti-Desiccant Spray
Apply an anti-desiccant spray to evergreen foliage in late fall to protect against winter dehydration. This helps prevent moisture loss due to harsh winds and low temperatures.
Burlap Wrapping
For young or vulnerable evergreens, consider wrapping them in burlap to shield against winter burn. This can be especially beneficial for newly planted trees or those exposed to harsh winter winds.
Snow Removal
Brush accumulated snow off evergreen branches to prevent breakage and damage. Use a broom or soft brush to gently remove snow, taking care not to bend or break the branches.
By selecting the right species and providing proper care, you can enjoy the beauty of evergreen trees in your Minnesota garden year after year. With these tips, your landscape will thrive, adding greenery and vitality even in the depths of winter.
See All of Applewood Nursery & Landscape Supply’s Selection of Evergreen Trees Here!