Types of Evergreen Hedges - Evergreen Hedges

By Jean D, The Writers Network Last updated on March 10th, 2011

Hedges can help you muffle nearby traffic noises while you define your property line and provide a windbreak for fragile plants, but certain types of evergreen hedges provide the added benefit of looking great at any time of year and being easy to care for.

In general, you can make a hedge out of most any evergreen shrub that you find pleasing. Planting the shrubs within 12 inches of each other will allow them to cluster together, weaving their branches together to form a tight screen. This article will discuss some common types of evergreen hedges, and may help you to choose the perfect evergreen hedge for your yard.

Boxwood Plants

Boxwood plants can grow from 4 to 9 feet tall, depending on the variety. These are popular hedge plants in Europe and grow well in most regions of the United States. Common boxwood varieties are particularly well suited to hedges, and respond well to pruning with conventional tools. Mountain laurel produces wide, broad leaves. In the spring and summer, you'll be treated to clusters of pink or white flowers. There are over 80 varieties of mountain laurel, so you have several flower colors to choose from. While the hedges grow slowly, they can reach up to 8 feet tall. If you'd prefer a less showy flowering evergreen plant, choose a holly variety. While hollies do not thrive in windy conditions, they can grow tall and dense in most sunny locations and the bright red berries are a nice alternative to traditional flowers.

Needled Plants

For a more wooded look, choose a needled plant for your shrubs. Dwarf spruce trees can form spiky hedges when planted close together. Douglas fir trees are dense and small, and work as excellent wind breaks. Common boxwood trees are slow growing trees that produce dense needles on tight branches. Mungo pine is the most commonly planted evergreen, and there are several varieties to choose from. Look for petite or dwarf varieties for shrub use.

Keep the aforementioned evergreen shrubs in mind should you decide to update your landscaping or garden in the future.

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