Conifers

What are conifers?

Conifers are needle-bearing trees or shrubs that almost always retain their green color, even in winter. The name 'conifer' literally means 'cone-bearer', which refers to the way these plants produce their seeds. In the Netherlands, they are immensely popular as hedging plants because they form a dense, impenetrable structure. There are countless varieties, ranging from scale conifers such as the Thuja to needle conifers such as the Yew. They are known for their robustness and the fact that they can survive in almost any soil type, provided their basic needs are well met. They form the backbone of many a Dutch garden.

The benefits of conifers as hedge plants?

Choosing conifers as a hedge offers various benefits for your outdoor space:

Types of conifers

Within the world of conifers, we distinguish between various popular species, each with its own character. The Thuja (Arborvitae) is a favorite due to its rapid growth and fresh scent. The Taxus baccata (Yew) is the king of hedges; it grows more slowly but can be pruned very tightly and always sprouts again from the old wood. In addition, there are the Leylandii conifers, which are known as the fastest growers of their kind, ideal for those who need a screen several meters high immediately.

Characteristics of conifers

Conifers are particularly strong plants that are excellently resistant to the Dutch climate. Most species are very winter-hardy and can effortlessly tolerate temperatures far below freezing. An important characteristic is the versatility in color; from deep dark green to golden yellow and even blue-gray shades. Most conifers are scale-like, which means they feel soft to the touch and do not prick. They grow in a conical or columnar habit, causing them to naturally grow upwards, which makes them perfect for forming clean lines.

What to look for when buying conifers?

When buying conifers, the desired growth rate is the most important starting point. Do you have the patience for a slow-growing, exclusive hedge (Yew), or do you want a dense wall within two years (Leylandii)? Additionally, pay close attention to the condition of the root ball or the pot. The roots must be healthy and moist. Also check that the plant is fully green from bottom to top; bare spots at the bottom do not recover in many species (except for the Yew). At Plants24, we guarantee that you will receive only freshly dug conifers with a strong root system for optimal regrowth.

How and where do I plant my conifers?

Conifers are not very picky, but for optimal results, plant them in the sun or partial shade. Ensure well-draining soil; conifers hate having their roots standing in water for extended periods, as this causes root rot. When planting, dig a trench that is twice as wide as the root ball. Use a high-quality soil conditioner for conifers to stimulate root formation. Place the plants at the correct distance from each other – usually 2.5 to 3 plants per meter – to create an even and dense hedge without gaps.

How do I maintain my conifers?

Conifer maintenance mainly revolves around pruning and watering. Prune your hedge twice a year: once in May/June and a second time in August/September. This keeps the hedge compact and prevents it from becoming too wide. Note that for most species, you should not prune past the foliage. During dry periods, especially after planting, regular watering is essential. An annual application of conifer fertilizer or Epsom salt in the spring helps to keep the color intense and prevent brown spots. This keeps your hedge in top condition.

Buy conifers at Planten247

Do you want to buy the best quality conifers online? At Planten247, you have come to the right place. We select our plants with the greatest care directly from the grower. This allows us to guarantee not only a competitive price but also the freshness of the plants. Whether you want to fence a small front garden or provide privacy for a large estate, we have the right size and type of conifer for your project. Order easily online and leave the heavy lifting to us; we deliver the conifers safely and quickly to your home throughout the Netherlands.

Frequently asked questions about conifers

How many conifers do I need per meter?

For a standard hedge 100-150 cm high, you usually need 3 plants per linear meter. For larger sizes, 2 to 2.5 plants per meter may be sufficient for a beautiful result.

When should I prune my conifers?

The best months for pruning are June (before the longest day) and September. Preferably prune on a cloudy day to prevent the freshly pruned branches from burning in the sun.

Can conifers stand in the shade?

Most conifers can stand perfectly well in the shade, but they will grow more slowly and become slightly less compact than in full sun or partial shade.

Why is my conifer getting brown branches?

This can have several causes: a magnesium deficiency (Epsom salts), insufficient water during drought, or a fungal infection. Check the soil conditions and ensure proper nutrition in the spring.