When it comes to landscaping, the allure of evergreen trees lies not just in their perpetual greenery but also in their ability to provide swift, year-round coverage. If you’re looking to establish a green haven in your garden or property promptly, consider the following selection of the fastest growing evergreen trees. These trees combine speed and resilience, offering both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits for a variety of landscaping needs.
7 Species of Fast Growing Evergreen Tree
1. Leyland Cypress (Cupressocyparis leylandii)
Rate of Growth: Leyland Cypress is renowned for its rapid growth, with an annual growth rate of 2 to 3 feet.
Characteristics: This evergreen boasts a dense, columnar shape, making it an excellent choice for privacy screens and windbreaks. It thrives in full sun and adapts well to a variety of soil conditions.
Considerations: While Leyland Cypress is a fast grower, it requires regular pruning to maintain its shape and prevent potential issues like overcrowding.
2. Thuja Green Giant (Thuja standishii x plicata)
Rate of Growth: Thuja Green Giant is celebrated for its rapid growth, averaging 3 feet or more per year under optimal conditions.
Characteristics: This evergreen exhibits a pyramidal shape and features vibrant green foliage. It is resilient, adaptable, and well-suited for creating hedges, screens, or windbreaks.
Considerations: Regular watering and well-drained soil contribute to the vigorous growth of Thuja Green Giant. Pruning can help maintain a desired shape and density.
3. Eastern White Pine (Pinus strobus)
Rate of Growth: Eastern White Pine is a moderately fast-growing evergreen, with an annual growth rate of around 1 to 2 feet.
Characteristics: This native North American tree showcases soft, flexible needles and a straight trunk. It is an excellent choice for large landscapes, providing both beauty and shade.
Considerations: Eastern White Pine prefers well-drained soil and full sun. While it may not be as rapid as some other evergreens, its graceful appearance and adaptability make it a popular choice.
4. Cryptomeria Yoshino (Cryptomeria japonica ‘Yoshino’)
Rate of Growth: Cryptomeria Yoshino is known for its fast growth, achieving up to 3 feet per year under optimal conditions.
Characteristics: This evergreen conifer boasts feathery, bright green foliage. Its elegant form and rapid growth make it suitable for ornamental landscaping, providing a distinct presence in the garden.
Considerations: Cryptomeria Yoshino thrives in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It requires minimal pruning to maintain its attractive shape.
5. Dawn Redwood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides)
Rate of Growth: Dawn Redwood is a fast-growing deciduous conifer, adding 2 to 3 feet of height annually.
Characteristics: While not evergreen in the traditional sense, Dawn Redwood retains its foliage well into fall before shedding. Its rapid growth and unique appearance make it a striking addition to landscapes.
Considerations: Dawn Redwood is adaptable to various soil types but thrives in moist, well-drained conditions. It offers a refreshing change with its deciduous nature while still providing rapid growth.
6. Norway Spruce (Picea abies)
Rate of Growth: Norway Spruce is a fast-growing evergreen, adding 1 to 2 feet in height annually.
Characteristics: With dense, horizontal branches and dark green needles, Norway Spruce is an attractive evergreen suitable for privacy screens, windbreaks, or ornamental planting.
Considerations: This adaptable tree prefers well-drained soil and full sun. Regular pruning can help maintain its shape and density.
7. Blue Point Juniper (Juniperus chinensis ‘Blue Point’)
Rate of Growth: Blue Point Juniper is a moderately fast-growing evergreen, gaining around 1 to 2 feet in height annually.
Characteristics: This juniper cultivar exhibits a pyramidal shape with blue-green foliage. Its moderate growth rate makes it an ideal choice for adding structure and color to the landscape.
Considerations: Blue Point Juniper thrives in well-drained soil and full sun. Pruning can be done to shape and enhance its visual appeal.
Tips for Successful Growth:
Optimal Planting Conditions: Choose a location with well-drained soil and sufficient sunlight for the specific evergreen tree. Adequate spacing between trees also promotes healthy growth.
Regular Watering: Provide consistent and deep watering, especially during dry periods. Newly planted evergreens may require more frequent watering until established.
Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Mulching contributes to overall tree health and growth.
Pruning and Shaping: Periodic pruning helps maintain the desired shape, remove dead or damaged branches, and enhance air circulation within the tree.
Fertilization: While some evergreens are adaptable to a range of soil conditions, fertilizing annually in early spring can provide essential nutrients for vigorous growth.
Conclusion
The allure of evergreen trees lies not only in their perennial beauty but also in their ability to transform a landscape quickly. When selecting the fastest growing evergreen trees, consider factors such as growth rate, characteristics, and suitability for your specific landscaping needs. With proper care, these evergreens will not only provide swift coverage but also become enduring focal points in your green sanctuary, enhancing the aesthetics and functionality of your outdoor space.
