Using evergreens in the garden

22 September 2021

Evergreen Structure

Using evergreens in the garden are crucial in our designs. Not only do they offer all year round interest, their strong forms ensure balance and height through the garden through all seasons. They form the backbone of the space, interspersed with soft perennials, to provide great contrast and shape.

Evergreens come in mainly shrub form, but there are some useful perennials too such as, the soft silver tones of Stachys and the leathery glossy leaves of Bergenia. Both form a lower layer within the planting scheme, almost creating a carpet of coverage. Shapely topiary evergreens make anchor points on corners and grouped together make a real impact. Currently, Pittosporums and Hebes are a cost effective option to achieve this. Their neat rounded shape and low maintenance requirements are a popular choice. 

In botany, an evergreen is a plant which has foliage that remains green and functional through more than one growing season. The Latin binomial term sempervirens, meaning "always green", refers to the evergreen nature of the plant, for instance

Deciduous plants lose their foliage through the winter.

Things to Consider

When using evergreens there are a number of things to consider:

The leaf size and shape – large leaves look tropical, strap-like leaves give a more Mediterranean feel. 

The colour – Evergreens aren’t just green. You can play with colour for added depth and exoticness.

The size – we will look at how fast it will grow and how big it will ultimately get. A few large plants will look dramatic in a small garden.

Under-planting – we will take advantage of the space under your trees and taller shrubs to maximise your growing space. It will also help to suppress weeds.

Extras – you may be planting for year-round foliage, but there are bonuses to be had, such as flowers or a decorative. appeal.

Hard working Plants

Evergreens are hard working plants, they will provide strong form and shape through the year. The winter can be flat and brown in the garden, but these stalwarts ensure interest is maintained through height and shape. Whether used for clothing walls, providing a green carpet under trees and border edges or in pots, they are tireless and diligent. 

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