Handsome and hardworking, evergreens are the backbone of many great gardens. They do a great deal of heavy lifting throughout the year, providing structure and form against which more exuberant and colourful species can shine. Often it’s only in winter that evergreens really capture our attention, looking good when their showier bed mates have died away.
Spring is a good time to plant evergreens, when the soil is warming and, usually, damp. Ensure they are watered well while they’re getting established because deep roots are especially important for those destined to create hedges and topiary, allowing them to access plenty of nutrition to cope with the stresses exacted by regular shaping with secateurs and shears.
Despite being labelled ‘evergreens’, they come in a variety of hues including yellow, purple
