Evergreens are trees and shrubs that keep their leaves or needles all year long. Common evergreen species include pine, spruce, fir, juniper, arborvitae, and holly. Evergreens are popular in landscaping because they provide color and structure during the winter when deciduous trees drop their leaves. But do evergreens do well in full sun? The answer depends on the specific species.
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How much sun do evergreens need?
Evergreens have varying light requirements. Some do best in full sun, while others prefer partial shade. Here are some general guidelines:
Full sun evergreens
Many evergreen trees and shrubs thrive in full sun, meaning at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Full sun evergreens include:
– Juniper – All juniper varieties do well in full sun. This includes upright junipers like ‘Skyrocket’ and spreading junipers like ‘Blue Rug’.
– Arborvitae – Most arborvitae cultivars tolerate full sun exposure if properly watered. Select sun-loving varieties like ‘Emerald’ and ‘Green Giant’.
– Pine – While a few pine species prefer partial shade, most pines grow well in full sun. This includes Austrian pine, ponderosa pine, and Scotch pine.
– Spruce – With the exception of a few heat-sensitive spruces, most do fine in full sun. Go for spruce varieties like Colorado blue spruce and Norway spruce.
– Fir – Fir trees generally appreciate full sun. Try balsam fir, Fraser fir, and Douglas fir.
– Holly – Upright holly varieties like American holly grow well in full sun.
– Boxwood – Full sun is ideal for boxwood shrubs. Choose heat-tolerant cultivars like ‘Green Velvet’.
– Rosemary – This woody herb thrives in full sun gardens.
Partial shade evergreens
Some evergreens perform best with afternoon shade or dappled sunlight throughout the day. Partial shade evergreens include:
– Rhododendron – Most rhododendrons grow best in partial shade in hot climates. However, they can tolerate full sun in cooler regions.
– Azalea – Like rhododendrons, azaleas prefer partial shade especially in warm zones. Provide afternoon shade.
– Laurel – Cherry laurel and other laurels appreciate light shade.
– Camellia – For optimal growth, camellias need partial shade and protection from hot afternoon sun.
– Yew – While yews tolerate full sun, afternoon shade is ideal. Varieties like Japanese yew and English yew do better with some relief from intense sunlight.
Choosing the right location
When selecting a spot for evergreens, consider the following factors:
Your climate
The amount of sun evergreens need often depends on your location. Hot inland areas require more shade than coastal zones. Consult your USDA Hardiness Zone. If you live in zones 8-10, lean towards shade-loving varieties. Zones 3-7 allow for more sun-loving options.
Natural sunlight patterns
Study the sunlight patterns in your yard before planting evergreens. Even sun-loving evergreens should avoid hot, direct afternoon sun. Pay attention to shadows cast by buildings, trees and fences. Identify areas with morning sun and afternoon shade.
Soil conditions
Well-drained, nutrient-rich soil helps evergreens better handle full sun. Improve drainage in heavy clay or boggy sites. Add organic compost to increase moisture retention in dry, sandy areas.
Air circulation
Good air movement allows heat to dissipate around evergreen foliage. Avoid enclosing evergreens in tight spaces. Give them room to breathe.
Available water
Evergreens in full sun have higher water needs. Ensure access to sufficient irrigation, especially in hot climates and during droughts.
Caring for evergreens in full sun
Evergreens planted in full sunlight require attentive care:
Watering
Water evergreens thoroughly and deeply at planting time. Provide 1-2 inches of water per week during the first year. Established evergreens still need supplemental water during dry periods. Install drip irrigation or use soaker hoses to target roots.
Mulching
Apply 2-4 inches of organic mulch around evergreens. Mulch conserves moisture and keeps roots cool. Replenish as needed. Avoid mounding mulch against trunks and stems.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to keep evergreens growing vigorously. Fertilize in early spring and mid-fall. Follow label instructions to determine dosage.
Pruning
Prune evergreens in spring after new growth appears. Remove dead branches and shape as needed. Pruning stimulates dense new growth better able to withstand sun exposure.
Choosing the right evergreen varieties
Selecting suitable evergreen varieties tailored to your climate and site is key to success. Here are top evergreen recommendations for full sun areas:
Full sun evergreens for cold climates (zones 3-5)
– Black Hills Spruce
– Norway Spruce
– White Pine
– Eastern Red Cedar
– Mugo Pine
Full sun evergreens for cool climates (zones 6-7)
– Blue Spruce
– Douglas Fir
– Eastern White Pine
– Canadian Hemlock
– Serbian Spruce
Full sun evergreens for warm climates (zones 8-10)
– Arizona Cypress
– Cherry Laurel
– Southern Magnolia
– Yaupon Holly
– Japanese Black Pine
Shade-loving evergreens for hot zones
– Azalea
– Boxwood
– English Ivy
– Japanese Maple
– Rhododendron
Using evergreens for sun protection
In addition to enjoying full sun themselves, evergreens can provide shade and protection for more sensitive plants. Use them as specimen plants, property borders, privacy screens or windbreaks. Strategic evergreen placement includes:
West side sun protection
Afternoon sun is harshest, especially in southern zones. Plant evergreens on the west side to shelter gardens from intense western exposure.
Screening southern sun
Position evergreens to block midday and afternoon southern sun. Use tall evergreen trees or a dense hedge to diffract sunlight and cut the glare.
Windbreaks
Evergreen windbreaks protect landscapes from drying winds and cold winter gusts. Place evergreens around the north and west sides of your yard. Leave space between trees for air to pass through.
Property buffers
Privacy screens with evergreen trees and hedges create seclusion and buffer views or noise on the borders of your lot. Allow room for mature spread.
Conclusion
Many evergreen varieties thrive in full sun with proper selection and care. Choose sun-loving species suited to your climate. Provide adequate water, nutrients, and air circulation. Use evergreens strategically to add year-round structure and shelter more delicate plants. With the right conditions, evergreens can bring vibrant color to sunny garden spots.