When looking for trees to plant, homeowners often overlook evergreens. The evergreen tree provides several benefits that homeowners should consider when landscaping.

There are several varieties of evergreen trees that homeowners can choose from when looking to improve their property. Pine and spruce trees have elements that make them a beneficial choice for many reasons, and most are easy and quick to grow.

Information on Evergreen Trees

Pine and spruce trees are classified as evergreens, meaning they never lose their foliage, or needles in this case. There are over 100 species of pine trees, and most are easy to grow. There is a wide variety of size, and shape, so every homeowner should be able to find one to meet their needs.

Close up of green needles on an evergreen pine tree — Credit: Unsplash

Benefits of Pine and Spruce Trees

Pine trees are quick-growing trees and most varieties can survive in poor soil, and extreme weather conditions. Even the gardener with the worst luck will usually have success with an evergreen tree.

Homeowners considering trees should also know that pine or spruce trees provide:

A windbreak. Because of their height, and quick-growing nature, planting many in a specific area will break the wind and possibly lower heating costs.
Privacy. While they won't keep animals or children in your yard, if you just want some privacy from neighbours this will provide a more attractive option than a fence.
Colour. In northern climates, deciduous trees are bare for 6 months or more out of the year. Evergreen trees provide some beautiful colour in a long winter. There's nothing prettier than a pine tree with some freshly fallen snow on it.

Wildlife

Birds, squirrels, chipmunks, and deer all use evergreen trees for their habitat and food.

Common Varieties of Pine Trees

Some of the most popular varieties of Pine trees are White Pine, Austrian Pine, and Scotch Pine. Bristlecone pines are popular for bonsai gardens.

Spruce trees include Blue Spruce, Norway Spruce, and Red Spruce. Spruce trees are a common choice for Christmas trees.

Tips for Planting Trees

Determine the best location for planting the tree, taking into account factors such as sunlight exposure, soil quality, drainage, and proximity to buildings or other structures. Avoid planting trees too close to structures or utility lines, and consider the tree's mature size when selecting a location.

All trees need some tender loving care, especially when first transplanted. To avoid shock. make sure the roots have plenty of room, and keep them well watered.

Most evergreens should be planted about 15 feet apart, but keep in mind when planting many trees, some of them will not make it, so you may want to plant more than you want and have the contact details of a company offering removal and stump grinding Red Deer (or a similar company in your local area) on hand to clear the remnants of dead or diseased trees. If all of them do survive, you can thin them out as they grow bigger.

Monitor the tree regularly for signs of stress, pests, or disease, and address any issues promptly. Continue to water and care for the tree as needed during its first growing season to help it establish a strong root system.

Most varieties of Pine or Spruce trees are very hardy and easy to grow. There are many varieties to choose from, and they have many benefits that will add to any homeowner’s landscaping needs.