Acclimating Evergreen Trees Before Planting

From the “How to Grow Evergreen Trees” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer

Before your evergreen trees ever take root in the ground, there’s one essential step that can make a big difference in their long-term health: acclimation—also called hardening off. This simple but important process gradually prepares young trees for the realities of outdoor life after being raised in more sheltered environments.

At 1st Choice Fertilizer, many of our evergreens are greenhouse-grown or nursery-raised. When your trees arrive, they may already have new buds or tender needles—signs of healthy growth, but also signs that they need a gentle transition to full outdoor conditions.

Why Acclimation Matters

New growth on evergreen trees is especially vulnerable to temperature swings, sunburn, and drying winds. Skipping the acclimation step can lead to needle browning, transplant shock, or stunted early development. Environmental risks to watch for include:

• Sudden drops below 40–45°F (especially for early-season shipments)

• Strong, drying winds

• Direct midday sun exposure

• Heat spikes above 85–90°F

These challenges are common in early spring and fall, but can occur at any time depending on your region. That’s why acclimation is a smart move before planting your trees outdoors.

Acclimating Balled-and-Burlapped & Bare-Root Evergreens

Many evergreen species are shipped dormant with burlap-wrapped root balls or bare-root systems. While they’re more resilient than leafy potted trees, they still need proper care before planting.

Before planting:

• Keep roots moist until planting—do not let them dry out. Store in a shaded, cool spot if you can’t plant right away.

• Soak bare roots in water for 1–2 hours before planting, but never more than 24 hours.

• Plant during cooler times of the day, ideally early morning or late afternoon, and aim for overcast weather if possible.

Acclimating Potted Evergreen Trees

If your evergreen arrives in a pot or grow bag with active new growth, it’s likely been growing under nursery or greenhouse conditions. These trees need time to adapt gradually to outdoor sunlight, wind, and temperature changes.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Unpack and inspect your tree upon arrival. Water thoroughly.

2. Place the tree in a partially shaded, wind-protected spot outdoors—such as a covered porch or north-facing wall.

3. After 1–2 days, gradually increase sun exposure over several days by moving the tree into more direct light.

4. Let the top inch of soil dry between waterings. This encourages root resilience.

5. Monitor the needles and buds. If you see browning or tip burn, move the tree back to a more sheltered location.

6. Avoid cold nights. If temperatures drop below freezing, bring the tree indoors or into a garage overnight.

After 3–5 days of gradual exposure—and as long as the soil is workable and temperatures stay consistently above 45–50°F—your tree is ready for transplant. For best results, plant on a calm, cloudy day to reduce environmental stress.

A Few Extra Tips

• Adjust for your climate: If you live in a high-altitude, windy, or desert region, extend the acclimation period by a few more days.

• Indoor backup: If outdoor conditions aren’t ideal, temporarily treat potted evergreens like houseplants—place them near a sunny window and avoid hot, dry indoor air.

• Every tree is different: Some evergreens, like arborvitae and spruce, adapt quickly, while others like cedar or cypress may take more time to adjust.

Acclimating your evergreen trees is a simple but powerful step that helps them thrive in their new environment. With a little patience and guidance from 1st Choice Fertilizer, you’ll be giving your evergreens the strongest possible start.

Choosing the Right Location to Plant Evergreen Trees

From the “How to Grow Evergreen Trees” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer

Success with evergreen trees starts long before you dig the first hole. Selecting the right location will help your trees thrive for years to come—providing beauty, structure, privacy, and shade in your landscape. The wrong site, on the other hand, can lead to slow growth, poor health, or even the need to remove and replant.

Here are five essential things to consider before planting your evergreen trees:

• Sunlight and soil quality

• Wind exposure and drainage

• Surroundings and long-term fit

• Spacing

• Room for future growth

---

1. Sunlight & Soil: The Foundation of Health

Most evergreen species—such as spruce, pine, arborvitae, and cypress—prefer full sun for at least 6 hours a day. While some tolerate light shade, the more sun your tree receives, the denser and healthier its growth will be.

Equally important is soil drainage. Evergreen roots are sensitive to standing water, which can lead to rot and disease. If your soil is heavy clay or if water pools after a rain, consider amending the soil or building a raised bed at least 12 inches deep. Sandy soil drains well but dries out faster, so regular watering may be needed until your tree is established.

Tip: Mix in compost or our Coco-Fiber Growing Medium to improve both drainage and moisture retention. Your local extension office can also offer soil testing and advice tailored to your region.

---

2. Wind Exposure & Microclimates: Protect Your Plantings

Evergreens can act as windbreaks—but young trees are vulnerable to wind stress while they establish. If possible, choose a location that offers some natural protection from harsh winds, such as a fence, building, or mature tree line.

In colder regions, avoid planting evergreens on the south side of buildings where winter sun can cause rapid thawing and refreezing, leading to winter burn on foliage. North or east-facing slopes are often better for year-round stability.

---

3. Check the Surroundings: Think Long-Term

Evergreens are long-lived and can grow quite large, depending on the species. Before planting, imagine your tree 10, 20, or even 30 years from now:

• Will it block windows or cast unwanted shade on your home or garden?

• Are there overhead power lines or underground utilities nearby?

• Will it grow too close to walkways, fences, or neighboring properties?

• Will other nearby trees eventually crowd it?

Planning now avoids costly removals or pruning later. Once an evergreen is established, it’s difficult to move without stress or damage.

---

4. Space Wisely: Let Roots and Branches Breathe

Evergreen trees need room to grow both above and below ground. While they’re generally non-invasive, planting too close to buildings, patios, or driveways can create future issues as roots expand and branches fill out.

Here’s a general guide to spacing (measured from trunk to trunk):

• Small conifers (e.g., dwarf pine, globe arborvitae): 4–6 feet apart

• Medium evergreens (e.g., emerald green arborvitae, junipers): 6–10 feet apart

• Large trees (e.g., blue spruce, eastern white pine): 12–20+ feet apart

Spacing matters not just for appearance, but also for airflow—helping prevent disease and ensuring each tree receives adequate light.

---

5. Leave Room for Growth—Literally

Starting with a few trees is a great way to learn and observe how evergreens perform in your yard. But once you see their impact—whether as a privacy screen, windbreak, or design anchor—you may want to plant more.

Think ahead: Leave room to expand with companion trees, shrubs, or additional evergreens in the future. Planning with flexibility ensures that your landscape continues to grow with your vision.

---

Ready to Plant? You’re Almost There.

Choosing the right location is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when planting evergreen trees. With smart planning and expert support from 1st Choice Fertilizer, you’re giving your trees the strong foundation they need for decades of beauty and resilience.

How to Plant Evergreen Trees the Right Way

From the “How to Grow Evergreen Trees” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer

A strong, healthy evergreen begins with how—and where—you plant it. While many evergreen species are easygoing once established, proper planting is key to ensuring long-term success, resilience, and vibrant year-round foliage.

---

Getting Started: Prep Before You Plant

If you’re planting a balled-and-burlapped (B&B) or bare-root evergreen, be sure to keep the roots moist and shaded until planting time. Never allow roots to dry out or freeze.

If you’re planting a container-grown evergreen, water the tree thoroughly before removing it from its pot. This makes it easier to handle and reduces transplant shock.

---

Step-by-Step Planting Guide

1. Dig Deep & Wide

Dig a hole 2–3 times wider than the root ball but no deeper than the height of the root system. Save your topsoil in a separate pile—it’s the most fertile and should go back in first.

2. Enrich the Soil

Mix your topsoil with aged compost, coir (such as our Coco-Fiber Growing Medium), or decomposed mulch. These materials improve texture and moisture retention. Avoid using fresh manure, which can burn roots.

If your soil is clay-heavy, blend in coarse sand or compost to improve drainage. Evergreens hate “wet feet.”

3. Position the Tree

Place your evergreen upright in the center of the hole. For B&B trees, remove all twine and burlap from the top third of the root ball to avoid girdling. For container-grown trees, gently untangle any circling roots to encourage outward growth.

Backfill with enriched soil, tamping lightly to remove air pockets. Make sure the root flare (where the trunk meets the roots) sits at or just above ground level.

4. Build a Water Catchment Basin

On sloped ground, build a 2–3 inch berm around the base of the tree to help retain water. Finish by adding mulch around the planting zone to insulate roots and reduce weeds.

---

After Planting: Water, Mulch, and Support

• Water thoroughly—soak the soil until it’s moist at least 6–8 inches deep.

• Mulch with 2–3 inches of organic mulch (wood chips, shredded bark, or pine straw). Keep mulch pulled back 2–3 inches from the trunk to prevent rot and rodent damage.

• Skip fertilizer for the first few weeks—give roots time to settle. After 4–6 weeks, use a balanced evergreen fertilizer like 1st Choice Fertilizer’s All-Season Tree Formula.

---

Special Planting Tips by Tree Type

For Balled-and-Burlapped (B&B) Trees

• Always handle by the root ball, not the trunk.

• Remove all visible burlap and string from the top of the ball before planting.

• Backfill in stages and water deeply between layers.

For Container-Grown Trees

• Don’t plant with the plastic pot—always remove it.

• If roots are tightly packed or circling, gently slice or loosen them to encourage outward growth.

• Staking may be needed for tall or top-heavy trees until they’re well-rooted.

---

 Final Tip: Remove the Nursery Tag

Tags and twist ties can become embedded in the bark as the tree grows. Be sure to remove them after planting—or reattach loosely using a soft tie so you can check and adjust as needed.

---

You’re on Your Way

Planting your evergreen tree the right way is the first—and perhaps most important—step toward decades of lasting beauty and performance. With expert advice and high-quality products from 1st Choice Fertilizer, you’re setting your landscape up for success from day one.

How to Prepare Soil for Planting Evergreen Trees

From the “How to Grow Evergreen Trees” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer

Before you place your evergreen tree in the ground, the most important step for long-term health happens beneath the surface. Proper soil preparation sets the stage for strong root development, reliable growth, and year-round greenery for decades to come.

Whether you’re planting in spring or fall, getting your soil right ahead of time is one of the smartest investments you can make. Here’s how to do it right.

---

Why Soil Preparation Matters

Healthy soil helps your evergreen tree:

• Anchor deep, stable roots

• Absorb essential nutrients and minerals

• Retain the right amount of moisture

• Resist disease and stress from drought or extreme weather

We recommend testing your soil before planting and rechecking it each year. Use a 1st Choice Digital Soil Meter for quick in-ground readings, or send a sample to your local Cooperative Extension for a full soil analysis. Understanding your soil’s pH, drainage, and nutrient levels is the first step toward success.

---

Understanding Soil Types

Evergreens grow best in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soils (pH 6.0–7.0). Here’s how to identify and amend your soil type:

Clay or Silt Soils

• Heavy, dense, and slow-draining

• Becomes compacted easily

• Often too wet in spring, too dry in summer

 Fix it: Add compost, coarse sand, or pine bark fines to improve structure and airflow.

Loam Soils

• Rich in organic matter, with a balanced texture

• Holds moisture but drains well

• Easy to dig and improves easily

 Fix it: Just a small boost of compost or coir can optimize loam for evergreens.

Sandy Soils

• Fast-draining, light, and gritty

• Low in organic matter and nutrients

• Dries out quickly

 Fix it: Mix in compost, peat moss, or our Coco-Fiber Growing Medium to increase water retention and nutrient availability.

---

When to Prepare the Soil

You can prepare soil as long as it’s not frozen or waterlogged. For best results:

• Spring planting? Begin soil prep in late fall or early spring.

• Fall planting? Prep in late summer so the soil has time to settle.

Tip: Even if you don’t plant right away, prepped soil is easier to work with when you’re ready.

---

What to Add to Your Soil

Evergreens don’t need overly rich soil, but they do need well-aerated, biologically active ground. These amendments help create the perfect environment:

• Compost: Boosts structure, drainage, and microbial life.

• Well-aged manure: Adds organic nutrients (avoid raw manure).

• Coir or peat moss: Improves water retention in sandy soil; lowers pH if needed.

• Pine bark fines: Lightens dense soils and adds acidity—great for conifers.

• Garden lime: Use only if your soil is highly acidic (pH < 5.5) and the species requires neutral ground.

---

Organic Matter: Your Soil’s Best Friend

Adding organic matter improves soil performance in all types of conditions:

• In sandy soils: Helps hold moisture and nutrients

• In clay soils: Improves drainage and root penetration

• In tired or poor soils: Restores beneficial microbes and long-term fertility

 Pro Tip: Don’t overlook free resources like shredded leaves, grass clippings, and mulched garden debris. These materials make excellent, sustainable soil boosters when composted properly.

---

Your Soil, Your Success

No matter which evergreen species you’re planting—arborvitae, pine, spruce, cypress, or fir—your soil will determine how well it establishes and how beautifully it matures. Start strong with good prep, and your trees will reward you with year-round performance and low-maintenance beauty.

---

Next in the Series: Ready to learn how to water newly planted evergreens? We’ll cover exactly how much they need (and what to avoid) in the next guide.

Need help choosing the right soil amendments?
Explore our full range of organic and professional-grade products at
www.1stChoiceFertilizer.com

Fertilizing Evergreen Trees for Year-Round Health and Growth

From the “How to Grow Evergreen Trees” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer

Fertilizing evergreen trees is one of the most effective ways to support dense foliage, deep green color, and long-lasting vitality—especially during their critical early years of establishment and seasonal transitions.

But not every evergreen tree needs the same nutrient blend. That’s why soil testing is key. Whether you’re planting a new arborvitae or maintaining a mature pine or spruce, understanding your soil allows you to choose the right fertilizer, in the right amount, at the right time.

---

Why Fertilize Evergreen Trees?

Fertilizer supports more than just growth. It strengthens your tree’s defenses, improves water efficiency, and helps evergreens remain vibrant through drought, wind, and winter.

The three major macronutrients in evergreen fertilizers are:

• Nitrogen (N): Fuels green foliage and shoot growth

• Phosphorus (P): Encourages root development and stress resistance

• Potassium (K): Enhances disease resistance, trunk strength, and cold hardiness

You’ll see these on fertilizer labels as N-P-K ratios, such as in our 1st Choice Evergreen Boost Granules, formulated for conifers and broadleaf evergreens of all sizes.

---

Always Test Before You Fertilize

Different soils vary in pH, nutrient content, and organic matter. Over-fertilizing can burn roots or lead to unbalanced growth, while under-fertilizing may cause stunted trees and yellowing needles.

Start with a soil test using our 1st Choice Digital Soil Meter, or get a full nutrient profile from your local Cooperative Extension Service. This helps you target what your tree truly needs—whether it’s nitrogen, magnesium, iron, or a balanced mix.

---

Fertilizing Young Evergreen Trees

Young evergreens need nutrients to grow roots, branches, and a strong central leader. However, in fertile soil, they may not need fertilizer in the first season unless you notice:

• Pale or yellowing needles

• Sparse new growth

• Wilting, despite proper watering

When needed, apply 1st Choice Evergreen Starter Formula—a gentle, water-soluble blend designed for transplanting and early-stage growth. Apply in early spring to support rapid establishment.

---

Fertilizing Mature Evergreen Trees

Once established (typically 3–5 years in), evergreen trees need ongoing nutrient support, especially as they combat pests, weather stress, and soil fatigue.

Apply a slow-release granular fertilizer like 1st Choice Deep Green Granules around the tree’s drip line, not at the trunk. This supports sustained growth and rich needle color throughout the year.

When to Fertilize Evergreens

• First application: Early spring (March–May), when soil is workable and growth begins

• Second application (optional): Mid to late fall, using a low-nitrogen, high-potassium mix to prepare trees for winter dormancy

 Important: Avoid high-nitrogen applications in late summer or early fall. This can trigger new growth that won’t harden off before cold weather sets in, increasing the risk of winter dieback.

---

Evergreens Have Different Needs

Not all evergreen species grow at the same pace or use nutrients the same way. Here’s a general guide:

“Light feeders” – Slow-growing or compact trees

• Boxwood, dwarf Alberta spruce, junipers

• Fertilize lightly 1x per year unless symptoms appear

“Heavy feeders” – Fast-growing or large conifers

• Pine, spruce, arborvitae, Leyland cypress

• Benefit from early-spring and fall feedings

---

Micronutrients Matter, Too

While N-P-K are important, micronutrients like iron, magnesium, calcium, and sulfur are also vital for evergreen health—especially in alkaline soils where deficiencies are common.

For example:

• Iron deficiency causes yellowing between veins (chlorosis) in acidic-loving evergreens like hollies or rhododendrons

• Magnesium supports needle retention and overall photosynthesis in conifers

We recommend 1st Choice Evergreen MicroBoost—a supplemental blend of trace elements for use in conjunction with your regular fertilizer.

---

Consistent Feeding, Long-Term Success

Fertilizing evergreens isn’t just about fast growth—it’s about building long-term resilience. With the right nutrients at the right time, your trees will reward you with rich color, dense form, and healthy performance year after year.

---

Need help choosing the right fertilizer for your evergreens?
Visit  www.1stChoiceFertilizer.com to explore our full lineup of targeted nutrient products, soil tests, and expert planting guides.

Pest & Disease Control for Evergreens

(From the “How to Grow Evergreens” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

As your evergreen trees grow, they may face challenges from pests and diseases. The location, weather, and care of your trees will influence the types of problems that arise and how well your trees resist them. However, by choosing pest-resistant varieties and following maintenance practices like watering, fertilizing, pruning, spraying, cleanup, and winter protection, you can help keep your evergreens healthy and thriving.

---

Common Evergreen Tree Pests

---

Preventive Measures for Evergreen Health

---

Additional Resources

Contact your local county Cooperative Extension for tailored advice and identification assistance. You can also visit our website at www.1stChoiceFertilizer.com for a complete line of organic and premium products, and expert guides for evergreen tree care.

Pruning Evergreens for Health and Growth

(From the “How to Grow Evergreens” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

Pruning evergreens is essential to maintain tree health, encourage strong growth, and ensure long-term vitality. Whether you’re shaping young trees or maintaining mature ones, pruning allows you to control size, remove diseased or damaged wood, and improve air circulation.

---

Why Prune Evergreens?

---

Basic Pruning Principles for Evergreens

1. Timing:

   • Prune in late winter or early spring during dormancy to minimize stress.

   • Avoid heavy pruning in late summer or fall, as it can stimulate new growth that’s vulnerable to cold.

2. Techniques:

   • Remove: Dead, damaged, or diseased wood to maintain health.

   • Shape: Trim to maintain a natural form, removing branches that may rub against each other.

   • Cut Clean: Always make a clean, sharp cut at a slight angle (about 45°) to ensure quick healing.

3. Tools:

   • Bypass Pruners: Ideal for small branches up to ¾ inch thick.

   • Loppers: For branches up to 2 inches thick, providing leverage with longer handles.

   • Pruning Saw: Use for larger branches over 2 inches thick.

   • Disinfectant: Always disinfect tools between cuts with isopropyl alcohol or a diluted bleach solution to prevent disease spread.

---

Pruning Evergreens: Tips for Different Tree Ages

---

Evergreen Pruning Methods

1. Central Leader Training (for Cone-shaped Evergreens like Pines and Spruces):

   • Maintain a single central stem as the highest point.

   • Scaffold branches should grow laterally, spaced evenly, and spread out at wide angles (around 10 o’clock and 2 o’clock positions).

   • Head back side shoots to keep the tree strong and symmetrical.

2. Natural Shape for Bush-like Evergreens (for Shrubs like Junipers and Arborvitae):

   • Focus on removing interior growth to maintain a healthy outer layer of foliage.

   • Shape the tree by trimming back older growth and thinning out crowded areas.

   • Prune after the growing season ends to avoid stimulating unwanted new growth.

---

Seasonal Pruning Calendar for Evergreens

---

Common Pruning Challenges

---

Additional Pruning Tips

1. Use Clean, Sharp Tools: Dull tools can tear branches, leading to longer healing times and increased vulnerability to disease.

2. Don’t Overdo It: Prune regularly but moderately. Over-pruning can weaken the tree and cause stress.

3. Prune for Air Circulation: Ensure that there’s plenty of airflow around the tree to prevent fungal diseases and encourage healthy growth.

---

Evergreen Pruning Tools

---

Pruning is an essential part of evergreen tree care. Whether you are nurturing young trees or maintaining mature evergreens, regular and thoughtful pruning will ensure your trees grow strong, healthy, and vibrant.

For more evergreen care tips, visit www.1stChoiceFertilizer.com and explore our expert guides, products, and more!

Pest and Disease Control for Evergreens: Effective Spraying Guidelines

(From the “How to Grow Evergreens” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

Proper pest and disease management is essential for maintaining the health of your evergreen trees. Early intervention and preventive spraying can help avoid serious pest problems or infections later on. Evergreens are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases that can affect their growth, appearance, and overall health.

To begin, it’s important to understand the typical pests and diseases that commonly impact evergreens in your region. Local resources, such as your county’s Cooperative Extension office, and university websites, can provide valuable guidance, as can independent garden centers and seasoned local growers who offer practical advice tailored to your area.

If you’re growing evergreens in an area with many other trees, maintaining a consistent and regular spraying schedule is key to ensuring healthy trees. Preventive spraying before infestations or infections take hold will help prevent more serious problems later. Applying treatments carefully and consistently will yield the best results.

---

When to Spray Evergreens

Important: Always follow the instructions on product labels carefully. Never mix chemicals unless the labels explicitly state it’s safe.

---

Pest Control Sprays for Evergreens

---

Disease Control Sprays for Evergreens

---

Combination Sprays for Pests & Diseases

---

Tips for Effective Spraying for Evergreens

1. Follow Product Labels: Always follow the rates, timing, and safety recommendations on product labels.

2. Spray Thoroughly: Ensure that all leaves, branches, and stems are completely covered during application.

3. Avoid Extreme Conditions: Avoid spraying during extreme temperatures, drought stress, or heavy rains.

4. Wait for Dry Leaves After Rain: Make sure leaves are dry after rain before spraying.

5. Test Plant Sensitivity: Always test a small area of the evergreen tree before applying any new product to avoid unwanted reactions.

6. Use Protective Gear: When handling pesticides, always wear gloves, masks, and safety glasses for protection.

7. Protect Pollinators: Spray after flowering to protect pollinators, especially when applying insecticides.

---

Regular Monitoring and Early Intervention

Consistent monitoring and timely intervention are critical for maintaining healthy evergreens. Regularly inspect your trees for pests and signs of diseases, and take action quickly before problems escalate. Preventive care is often more effective than dealing with severe infestations or infections.

By following Evergreens Pest & Disease Control’s comprehensive spraying guidelines, you can help ensure the long-term health and beauty of your evergreen trees. With proper care, your evergreens will thrive, adding aesthetic value and improving the overall health of your garden.

Watering Evergreens: Essential Guidelines for Healthy Growth

(From the “How to Grow Evergreens” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

Evergreens are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to water requirements, but ensuring they receive the right amount of moisture is crucial for their health and longevity. Whether you’re growing pines, spruces, firs, or any other evergreen variety, understanding their watering needs will help you provide the optimal environment for robust growth.

In general, evergreen trees are fairly drought-tolerant once established, but they do need consistent moisture during their first few years to properly develop their root systems. If you live in a region that doesn’t experience frequent rainfall, such as arid or drought-prone zones, or if your evergreens are planted in containers, you may need to supplement natural rainfall with regular irrigation.

---

Watering Tips for New Evergreens

During the first growing season, it is critical to establish a solid root system. While evergreens are quite hardy, young trees benefit from a regular watering schedule to encourage deep root growth.

• Goal: Keep the root area moist, but not soaked. Overwatering can suffocate the roots, leading to root rot and other issues.

• Frequency: If your area receives about one inch of rain every 7-10 days, that should typically suffice for new trees. If the rainfall is less consistent or in shorter periods, plan to water deeply every 7-10 days.

• Soil Considerations: Sandy soils drain faster and will require more frequent watering. Clay-heavy soils retain moisture longer, so water less often but more deeply.

How to Water Effectively:

• Deep Watering: Water deeply, aiming to moisten the soil at least 6-12 inches deep, depending on the root depth of your tree. This encourages deep root growth, helping your evergreen establish a strong foundation.

• Slow and Steady: Using a soaker hose or a slow trickle from a garden hose placed at the base of the tree is ideal. Allow the water to seep deep into the ground rather than just wetting the surface.

• Avoid Overwatering: Be cautious not to water too often. Shallow, frequent watering can encourage surface roots and lead to stress in the long run. Water once a week to 10 days, adjusting according to the weather conditions.

• Basin Trick: Digging a shallow basin around the base of your tree can help catch water and direct it to the roots. This works particularly well for newly planted trees, but be sure to level it out before winter to avoid ice damage around the root zone.

---

Watering Established Evergreens

Once your evergreen trees are established (typically after 2-3 years), they will need less frequent watering. However, they still require deep watering during dry spells, especially in the growing season.

• Longer Droughts: During prolonged dry spells, deeply water your evergreen once every 2-4 weeks.

• Winter Watering: While winter usually provides enough moisture for evergreens, occasional watering during warm spells or if the ground is dry can prevent winter damage. It’s especially important if there has been a dry fall or early winter.

---

Signs of Overwatering or Underwatering Evergreens

1. Overwatering: Yellowing needles, wilting, or root rot are signs of too much water. If your soil feels soggy or spongy, you may be overwatering.

2. Underwatering: Brown or crispy needles, especially on the lower branches, or a tree that looks dried out, indicates that the evergreen isn’t receiving enough moisture.

---

Watering Tips for Evergreens in Containers

Container-grown evergreens need more attention, as they dry out faster than those planted in the ground. These trees should be watered more frequently, but be mindful of the potential for root rot due to overwatering.

• How to Water: Water deeply until water runs out of the drainage holes, but avoid letting the tree sit in excess water.

• Check Soil Moisture: Use your finger to check the soil moisture. If the soil feels dry 2-3 inches down, it’s time to water.

---

Watering Considerations by Soil Type

---

Watering Evergreens During Winter

Winter is a challenging time for evergreens because they lose moisture through their needles due to wind and low humidity. During warm spells, if the soil is not frozen, watering can help ensure your tree remains hydrated.

• Winter Dryness: If your region experiences particularly dry winters, consider watering evergreen trees during periods of mild weather.

• Check Soil Moisture: Before watering, check to see if the soil is frozen or too dry. You don’t want to water if the ground is frozen solid, but if the soil is dry, it’s safe to water.

• Avoid Wetting Needles: When watering, direct the water to the soil to avoid wetting the needles, which could lead to fungal infections or damage.

---

Conclusion

Proper watering is a key factor in the health and growth of evergreen trees. While they are hardy and drought-tolerant once established, young trees and containerized evergreens need consistent care to develop strong root systems. By understanding your evergreen’s water needs, adjusting for soil types, and paying attention to the weather, you’ll create a thriving environment for your trees.

Don’t forget to observe your trees regularly and adjust watering schedules based on the local weather, soil conditions, and specific tree needs. And always be mindful of local watering restrictions, especially during drought conditions.

Enjoying the Beauty of Your Evergreens: Harvest and Storage Tips

(From the “How to Grow Evergreens” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

After years of nurturing your evergreen trees, the time has come to reap the rewards of your hard work—whether it’s the stunning year-round foliage, the pinecones, or the natural beauty they bring to your landscape. But, just like any other aspect of tree care, there are a few key steps to ensure that your evergreens remain healthy and vibrant, especially when it’s time to trim or manage growth for the upcoming seasons.

---

When Will My Evergreen Tree Start Maturing?

Evergreens, unlike fruit trees, don’t “produce” in the traditional sense. However, their growth and maturity will be your harvest! Depending on the species and growth conditions, most evergreen trees start showing significant growth around 2-5 years after planting. Regular care, such as proper watering and fertilizing, ensures that your evergreens thrive.

---

Recognizing Healthy Evergreen Growth

Unlike deciduous trees, evergreens retain their needles year-round. To gauge your tree’s health, look for:

• Needle Color: Healthy evergreens typically have vibrant, deep green needles. Yellowing or browning can indicate nutrient deficiencies or disease.

• Shape and Size: Keep an eye out for your tree’s natural shape. Some evergreens may show signs of irregular growth, which may need attention through pruning.

• Growth Rate: Evergreens grow more slowly than deciduous trees, but consistent growth is a sign of good health. If you notice stagnation, it may be due to stress or a lack of essential nutrients.

---

Evergreen Pruning and Trimming

While evergreens don’t require “harvest” in the traditional sense, maintaining their shape and size through proper pruning is crucial. Here’s how to manage trimming:

• Pruning Season: For the best results, prune your evergreens in early spring or late winter before new growth begins. This helps reduce the risk of disease and allows the tree to heal before the growing season.

• What to Cut: Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Trimming helps improve airflow and prevents pests from nesting in the dense branches.

• How to Trim: Always use clean, sharp pruning tools. Cut branches at a slight angle, just above the nearest bud or lateral branch. Avoid cutting into the main stem or trunk to preserve the tree’s health.

---

How to Store Evergreen Cuttings or Pinecones

If you’re looking to store evergreen branches, pinecones, or seeds for decorative purposes or propagation, follow these tips:

• Pinecones: If you’re collecting pinecones for crafts, wait until they’ve fully matured. Pinecones can be stored in a cool, dry place. Avoid moisture, as it can lead to mold.

• Evergreen Branches for Decoration: If you want to create wreaths, garlands, or other decorations, it’s best to cut branches when they’re fresh but not too young. Store the branches in a cool, dry area until you’re ready to use them.

• Evergreen Seed Storage: Collect seeds in late fall and store them in a dry, cool place in paper bags. Seeds can be sown in spring or kept for future planting.

---

Tips for Storing and Caring for Your Evergreens Over the Winter

• Winter Protection: Evergreens, though hardy, can suffer from desiccation in winter winds. Mulch around the base of your trees and consider covering them with burlap if you live in an area with harsh winds or severe cold.

• Watering in Winter: While evergreens don’t need to be watered frequently in winter, it’s important to give them occasional deep watering during dry periods. This helps prevent desiccation, especially if the ground is not frozen.

---

Check for Pests and Diseases

Evergreens can be susceptible to pests like aphids, mites, and scale insects, as well as diseases such as needle blight. Regular monitoring is essential:

• Inspect regularly: Look for signs of pest infestation or disease, including needle discoloration, webbing, or unusual spots on leaves or branches.

• Treatment: If you notice pests or diseases, apply an appropriate pest control or fungicide treatment to manage the issue. Always follow the product instructions to ensure safe application.

---

Conclusion

Though evergreens don’t offer a harvest in the same way as fruit-bearing trees, their consistent care throughout the years is incredibly rewarding. Whether you’re appreciating their beauty, storing pinecones, or pruning for a better shape, a little attention and timely action can ensure that your evergreens continue to thrive and enhance your landscape for years to come.