Evergreen vs Deciduous: What to Plant and When

Planting trees is an essential aspect of landscaping and yard maintenance.

If you’re a new homeowner or you’re looking to update your outdoor space, you may be wondering what type of trees to plant and when.

In this blog post, I will be discussing the difference between evergreen and deciduous trees and outlining the benefits and drawbacks of each.

By the end of this post, you will have a better understanding of which trees will work best for your yard and how to ensure they are planted at the optimal time.

Let’s get started.

What are Evergreen and Deciduous Trees?

Do you know the difference between evergreen and deciduous trees? If not, don’t worry – it’s a common question. Basically, evergreens are trees that keep their foliage year-round, while deciduous trees lose their leaves seasonally.

Evergreens are often used as a symbol of everlasting life because of their ability to maintain their green leaves throughout the year. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, ranging from the classic pine to the unusual ginkgo biloba.

Deciduous trees, on the other hand, offer a wide range of colors throughout the year. Their leaves come in various shades of green, yellow, orange, and red, which makes them a popular choice for creating beautiful fall landscapes.

Both types of trees have their advantages and disadvantages, and the decision to plant one over the other depends on your personal preference as well as the climate in your area. Let’s take a closer look at some of these advantages and disadvantages in the next sections of this blog post.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Evergreen Trees

Evergreens offer a variety of benefits in the garden. They are sturdy trees that are perfect for providing year-round shade, privacy, and wind protection. They also require very little maintenance once established, making them an ideal choice for busy homeowners.

One of the main advantages of evergreens is that they do not lose their leaves. This means that they provide shade and privacy throughout the year, which can be especially important if you live in a densely populated area. They can also act as a windbreak, which is helpful in areas that are prone to strong winds.

Another advantage of evergreens is that they are extremely drought tolerant. They do not require as much water as deciduous trees, which can be beneficial if you live in an area with water restrictions. They are also low-maintenance and do not require pruning or shaping.

However, evergreens also come with a few disadvantages. One is that they can be more expensive than deciduous trees. Their slow growth rate can make them more expensive to purchase and plant, but this can be offset by their long lifespan. Another disadvantage is that they can cast a lot of shade, which can be a problem if you are trying to grow sun-loving plants in the area around the tree.

Overall, evergreens are a great choice for homeowners who want a sturdy and low-maintenance tree that provides year-round benefits. However, it is important to consider the needs of your garden and your personal preferences before making a decision on what type of tree to plant.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Deciduous Trees

Deciduous trees are those that lose their leaves during a particular season. While they differ from their evergreen counterparts in a few ways, they can make an excellent addition to any home garden, so here are some factors to consider:

Deciduous trees provide excellent shading during the summer, as their leaves absorb sunlight, which can help lower your energy bills.

Many deciduous trees have gorgeous foliage, and can introduce beautiful autumn colors to your garden, such as bright yellows, oranges, and reds.

Although deciduous trees may initially have a lower cost compared to evergreen trees, they can be a little more time-consuming to maintain, given the regular clean up of fallen leaves. Unfortunately, decaying leaves can become a breeding ground for pests, so you may want to invest in some extra maintenance to keep the tree healthy.

You should also note that without foliage, deciduous trees offer little privacy or protection from the wind and dust that comes along.

If you’re looking for a fast-growing tree, deciduous trees are a great option, growing quicker than evergreen trees. However, this comes with the caveat that they have a shorter lifespan, with a majority expected to live for around 50-100 years.

Before deciding which tree to plant, you should consider how the tree would fit with your lifestyle and the design of your home garden. While deciduous trees have great advantages, they also have some drawbacks, so it is essential to weigh these factors when making your choice.

What to Consider Before Planting Trees

If you are thinking about planting trees in your yard, there are several factors to consider. First, you need to make sure that there is enough space in your yard to accommodate the type of tree you want to plant. Some trees, such as evergreens, can grow quite tall and wide, while others, such as ornamental fruit trees, tend to stay relatively small.

Another important factor to consider is the soil in your yard. Different types of trees thrive in different types of soil, so it’s important to choose a tree that can grow well in the type of soil you have. You may need to amend the soil in your yard to make it more suitable for certain types of trees.

Climate is also an important consideration when it comes to planting trees. Some trees do better in cold climates while others thrive in warmer climates. Make sure to research the climate requirements of the trees you are considering before making a final decision.

Finally, think about the purpose of the tree. Are you planting it for shade? Privacy? Aesthetic appeal? Different types of trees are better suited for different purposes, so it’s important to choose a tree that meets your specific needs.

By taking the time to consider all of these factors, you can ensure that you choose the right trees for your yard and that they will thrive for many years to come.

When to Plant Evergreen Trees

If you’re thinking about planting evergreen trees, it’s wise to do it in early spring or early fall. This allows the trees enough time to establish their roots before the heat of summer or the cold of winter arrives. Planting evergreens during the summer can cause extreme stress to the trees and planting them during winter can make it difficult for the roots to establish before the ground freezes. It’s important to choose a time when the soil is not too wet, as this can lead to poor root development.

Before you start planting, make sure you properly prepare the soil. This means loosening the soil and incorporating organic matter, such as compost, to improve drainage. You’ll also want to ensure that the planting site has good drainage and is not prone to flooding.

When planting evergreens, it’s important to give them enough space to grow. You don’t want to overcrowd your yard and create a maintenance nightmare in the future. Consider how large the tree will grow and plant it accordingly.

Finally, be sure to water your newly planted evergreens thoroughly after planting and on a regular basis over the first few years of their growth. This will help them establish deep roots and ensure they can withstand the elements.

When to Plant Deciduous Trees

Deciduous trees, as opposed to evergreen trees, have leaves that change color and fall off in the fall. The best time to plant deciduous trees is in the early spring or fall, when temperatures are cooler and the soil is moist. Planting in the late spring or summer can stress the tree due to the hot, dry conditions that often occur during this time.

When choosing a specific time to plant, avoid planting during extremely hot or dry spells or when the ground is frozen. It’s important to give your tree enough time to establish roots before the hot summer months, or to have time to get settled in the soil before the cold winter sets in.

If you plant in the fall, aim to do so before the first hard frost sets in. Roots will continue to grow throughout the winter, allowing the tree to be better established come spring.

Remember, different species of trees may have slightly different planting timelines. It’s always a good idea to research the specific variety of tree you plan on planting to ensure you’re giving it the best possible start to its life in your yard.

Choosing the Right Tree for Your Yard

Choosing the right tree for your yard can be a daunting task, but it is an important decision that should not be taken lightly. There are several factors to consider before making a final decision, and it is important to weigh the pros and cons of each tree before planting.

First and foremost, consider the size of the tree at maturity. You do not want to plant a tree that will grow too large for your yard, causing potential damage to your home or nearby structures. Be sure to research the potential size of any tree you are considering planting and ensure it is a good fit for your space.

You should also take into account the tree’s water and sunlight requirements. Some trees require more water than others, and some thrive in full sunlight while others prefer partial or full shade. Make sure that the tree you choose will be able to thrive in the conditions of your yard.

Consider the tree’s growth rate as well. If you are looking for immediate shade or privacy, a tree with a faster growth rate may be more appealing. However, keep in mind that trees with faster growth rates may require more pruning and maintenance in the long run.

Another important factor to consider is the tree’s root system. Some trees have shallow roots that can damage sidewalks and driveways, while others have deep roots that can interfere with nearby plumbing or septic systems. Be sure to research the root systems of any trees you are considering before planting.

Lastly, consider the overall aesthetic of the tree. Do you prefer a tree that will provide vibrant fall foliage, or do you prefer a tree that will remain green year-round? Do you want a tree with showy flowers or interesting bark? Considering the overall aesthetics of the tree will ensure that you are happy with your choice for years to come.

By taking into account these factors, you can choose the right tree for your yard that will thrive in your space and contribute to the overall beauty of your home and garden.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, choosing between evergreen and deciduous trees can be a difficult decision to make.

However, by weighing the benefits and drawbacks of each option, and considering the specific needs of your yard, you can make a decision that you’ll be happy with for years to come.

So, which type of tree are you most excited to plant in your yard?

Let me know by sending me a message.

If you found this blog post helpful, please consider sharing it on social media.

You never know who in your network might also be searching for advice on planting trees, and who might find this information helpful.

Thanks for reading!