Evergreen Shrubs for Landscaping

Evergreen shrubs are known for their great ability in keeping your garden accented in green all year long. There are many types of evergreen shrubs which serve multiple purposes. While some can be used as ground covers and to hide the bases of thin plants, others can be used as natural fences or privacy screens for your home and yard.

One of the types of evergreen shrubs used for privacy purposes is the emerald arborvitae. This bushy evergreen shrub has very long lasting needles. It is fast growing and dense enough to be grown and used as a privacy screen or natural fence around your property. One emerald arborvitae evergreen shrub can grow up to 15 or 20 feet in height and around 4 to 6 feet in spread. This evergreen shrub is a top pick because it requires minimum maintenance. Apart from watering and trimming to keep its form, this is one of the easiest types of evergreen shrubs to upkeep while reaping maximum benefits.

Another great type of evergreen shrub useful for privacy purposes would be the Irish juniper. This evergreen shrub is not as tall or wide as the emerald arborvitae, but can be much more decorative. For a well sculpted and planned out lawn, this column shaped type of evergreen shrub can be used alone by windows or in rows to create a beautiful perimeter around the front yard. Although this evergreen shrub is not spread out, it can grow up to 10 or 12 feet in height. They are quite majestic when properly sculpted.

If you aren't worried so much about the privacy of your home but are interested in establishing a perimeter around your front or back yard, there are types of evergreen shrubs that are perfect for hedges. Some are naturally short and require no regular pruning other than the first shaping.

One such evergreen shrub example would be red holly. Like stated in their name, red holly produced tiny cherry-like berries that look beautiful against their deep green foliage. This evergreen shrub grows at a slightly slower pace than most, so it requires minimum grooming efforts. This also means that the shedding of dead leaves is minimal, which saves a lot of raking time! If properly pruned, this evergreen shrub is great at holding any shape and height desired.

Types of evergreen shrubs do not just extend themselves for the perimeter marking qualities they possess. Some evergreen shrubs can be used solely for their beauty and colorful nature. Heather is one such example. This evergreen shrub is low growing and produces rows of small pink or white flowers during the winter and early spring. They can be used at the bases of trees to add color to your lawn in the midst of dead winter.

Evergreen shrubs are a great addition to any landscaped paradise, adding color in even extreme conditions. With their long lasting capabilities and varying uses, any of the many types of evergreen shrubs are a welcome addition to your home and garden.

Sources:

www.naturehills.com/catalog/...shrubs/evergreen_shrubs.aspx

www.landscaping.about.com/.../evergreenshrubsbushes1/Evergreen_Shrubs_Bushes_Hedges_Other_Uses_for_Evergreen_Shrubs.ht