Fortunately, our climate and soils are such that we can grow conifers from all the temperate parts of the world and many hundreds of introduced kinds grow well in our islands to provide timber in our forests and ornamental and shelter in our woodlands, parks and gardens.
The larger varieties can offer evergreen shelter, conifer hedges can bring formality and structure to the garden. If they are trimmed well they will provide valuable protection in the garden.
Container grown conifers can be planted at any time of the year,
But if you are planting bare root stock this can only be done at certain time of the year, early autumn or late spring.
Conifers do best in non polluted areas, as in these areas the foliage, being evergreen and not replenished every year as in deciduous trees and shrubs; get clogged up with impurities so they cannot function.
Mostly conifers in their natural habitat grow in fairly rich woodland soils where there is heavy rainfall. In general, conifers are not happy on soils with high lime content.
Conifers grown ornamentally need no pruning unless damaged.
Conifers for Hedges
The most well known heading conifer is the Leylandii, which has caused much controversy over the years. However, if it is kept trimmed to approximate. 6/8ft. high it develops into a very attractive and dense screen, offering wind protection and privacy to your garden. |
