Evergreen Shrubs

What are the best-known and most popular evergreen shrubs?

When looking at the favorites in the Dutch garden, a number of evergreen shrubs invariably top the list. The Photinia is extremely popular due to its fiery red shoots in the spring, while the Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus) is the classic choice for a dense, green boundary. Are you looking for a shrub that is evergreen and also blooms beautifully? Then the Rhododendron is an indispensable choice. The Japanese Holly (Ilex crenata) is also gaining ground as a robust and stylish alternative to boxwood, perfect for both clean lines and natural borders.

The benefits of evergreen shrubs

The biggest advantage of evergreen shrubs is, of course, the permanent leaf retention. While other plants lose their leaves in the autumn, these plants provide a permanent structure. This offers several important advantages:

• Privacy: An evergreen shrub acts as a natural privacy screen all year round.
• Wind protection: The dense structure blocks harsh winter winds.
• Habitat: Birds find shelter and nesting opportunities all year round.
• Atmosphere: Your garden looks well-maintained and lively even on a grey winter day.

What to look for when buying evergreen shrubs?

When purchasing an evergreen shrub, the final size is a crucial factor. Some species grow quickly and spread widely, while others remain compact. Always check the winter hardiness; Although they retain their leaves, not all evergreen shrubs can withstand extreme frost. Additionally, consider their soil requirements. A Rhododendron, for example, requires acidic soil, while a Laurel thrives in almost any soil. Also, pay attention to the desired location: does the plant need full sun for abundant flowering, or does it prefer the shelter of the shade?

What types of evergreen shrubs are there?

The variety within evergreen shrubs is enormous. We can roughly divide them into three categories:

• Flowering species: Think of the Skimmia, Camellia, or the fragrant Viburnum tinus.
• Berry-bearing species: Holly (Ilex) and Firethorn (Pyracantha) add color with their berries in the autumn.
• Foliage plants: Species such as the Portuguese Laurel or the Olive Willow (Elaeagnus) stand out due to their leaf color and texture.

Whether you choose an evergreen shrub with needle-shaped leaves or large glossy leaves, a suitable match can be found for every garden style.

Where do I place my evergreen shrubs?

The right spot for your evergreen shrubs depends heavily on the specific species. In general, many evergreen shrubs do well in a spot in partial shade, where they are protected from the harshest midday sun that can dry out the leaves in winter. Use them as background planting in a border to let lower perennials shine, or plant an evergreen shrub in a beautiful decorative pot for the patio. When planting, always ensure a spacious hole and good potting soil to make the start easier.

How do I care for my evergreen shrubs?

Caring for an evergreen shrub is relatively simple. The most important thing is watering during dry periods, including in winter. Because they retain their leaves, they continue to evaporate moisture. Pruning is preferably done in the spring (after the frost) or at the end of summer to maintain the shape. Give your evergreen shrubs a good organic base fertilizer in the spring. This stimulates healthy growth and ensures that the foliage remains deep in color and the plant is resistant to diseases.

Buy evergreen shrubs

Do you want to transform your garden into a year-round green paradise? At Planten247, you can easily buy the most beautiful evergreen shrubs. We select our plants directly from the grower, so you are assured of top quality and a fresh product. Whether you are looking for a hedge plant or a unique eye-catcher, you will always find what you are looking for in our wide range of evergreen shrubs. Order your evergreen shrub online and have it conveniently delivered to your home, ready to be planted immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions about evergreen shrubs

When is the best time to plant evergreen shrubs?

In principle, you can plant evergreen shrubs all year round, as long as it is not freezing or extremely hot. However, the best period is autumn or early spring, because the soil is still warm or just warming up, which promotes root growth.

Should I water an evergreen shrub in winter?

Yes, this is often forgotten. If it is freezing and the sun is shining, the plant evaporates moisture through the leaves while the roots cannot absorb water from the frozen ground. Therefore, water on frost-free days during dry periods.

What is the fastest-growing evergreen shrub?

The Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus 'Rotundifolia') and the Leyland cypress are among the fastest growers. These are ideal if you want to create a lot of privacy in the garden in the short term with an evergreen shrub.

Why is my evergreen shrub losing its leaves?

Evergreen shrubs also renew their leaves. Older leaves turn yellow or brown and fall off, usually in the spring. As long as new green leaves appear at the tips, this is a natural process and no cause for concern.