Plant Care & Information
Evergreen Tree Care & Planting Guide
All Natural Trees For the Future
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Planting for Wyoming (And Everywhere Else)
Wyoming is a challenging state to grow in. High altitudes, howling winds, short dry summers, and cold winters are just a few of the obstacles. If our evergreen trees can thrive here, they can thrive almost anywhere.
The secret to success is protecting your young trees, especially during their first winter. Follow these instructions to help your seedlings establish strong roots.
Know Your Zone
All our plants and trees include their habitable zone according to the USDA Zone Maps. See the map below to see if your choice matches your zone. Click on the map to visit the USDA website for further information.
1. Upon Arrival
Spring Orders
Trees arriving in spring are active and growing. Inspect them immediately for shipping damage.
- Plant immediately if no hard freezes are expected.
- Protect from direct harsh sunlight until planted.
Fall Orders
Evergreens arriving in fall are already winter hardened.
- Plant immediately; no frost danger.
- Allows acclimation before harsh weather.
Holding Instructions
If not planting immediately, keep in a bright, cool location out of direct sunlight. Keep roots moist.
WARNING: Do not soak in water for more than 24 hours. For bareroot trees, place trees in a bucket of water and fill water to cover. For plug seedlings, do not place the roots in water directly as this will dissolve the root bundle soil. Just keep the root bundle moist and do not allow it to dry out.
2. Planting Steps
Moisture Prep
While preparing the ground for planting, immerse bareroot seedlings in bucket of water to prevent roots from drying or for plug seedlings, ensure root bundles are kept moist but do not submerge in water.
Dig & Insert
Dig deeper and wider than the roots. Insert seedling. Do not break the root bundle!
Firm Soil
Gently firm soil to remove air pockets. Do not stomp, as this compacts the soil too much.
The "Root Collar" Rule
The root collar (zone between root and stem) must be even with ground level.
- Too Deep: Suffocates the stem.
- Too Shallow: Dries out roots.
- J-Rooting: Tap root curved up.
- Just Right: Collar level with soil.
CRITICAL CAUTION
Most of our trees have the root bundle intact as plug or potted seedlings.
It is important that you DO NOT BREAK OR LOOSEN THE INDIVIDUAL ROOT BUNDLE.
Breaking the bundle will cause root damage and reduce the tree’s ability to survive.
The First Year Survival Guide
Young trees are vulnerable. Follow these four pillars of care to ensure your evergreens survive the seasons.
Moisture & Watering
Water deeply every 7-10 days. Let the ground dry out between waterings to encourage deep root growth.
Winter Prep: Keep watering consistently well into the fall until the ground is completely frozen. This prevents winter burn.
Wind & Winter Protection
Cold, dry winds can dry out evergreens faster than roots can replace water ("Winter Burn").
- Use a wind barrier tube around young trees.
- Consider a windbreak fence for rows of trees.
- Any reduction in wind exposure increases survival odds.
Wildlife Defense
Even if evergreens are less "tasty" than deciduous trees, wildlife will still investigate.
Use tree guards or poultry wire fencing attached to stakes. Ensure the protection is high enough (up to 6ft for older trees) to deter rabbits and deer.
Do NOT Fertilize Year 1
Give trees time to adapt. Fertilizing in the first year often over-stresses and kills young trees.
Year 2+: Use natural, organic fertilizers. Avoid chemicals that can burn roots and harm the environment.
Planning Your Layout
Windbreaks
A strategic barrier to reduce wind speed, protect structures, and manage snow drift.
Functionality & Protection
Recommended Configuration
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Multiple Rows Plant at least 2-3 rows for effective wind reduction. A single row may eventually lose lower branches and allow wind to tunnel through.
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Staggered Spacing Do not plant in a straight grid. Offset the second row so trees fill the gaps of the first row (zigzag pattern).
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Spacing Distance Space trees 8-12 feet apart within the row, and 10-14 feet between rows.
Privacy Screens
A living wall to block sightlines, reduce noise, and create a secluded sanctuary.
Density & Aesthetics
Recommended Configuration
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Tighter Spacing For faster privacy, you can plant slightly closer, about 6-8 feet apart.
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Mix Your Species Consider mixing different evergreen species to prevent disease spread and add texture.
Long-Term Maintenance Guide
Mulching
Apply a 2-4 inch layer of wood chips or organic mulch around the base (doughnut shape).
Weed Control
Keep a 3-foot diameter circle around the tree clear of grass and weeds.
Pruning
Prune only dead/broken branches or "suckers" (double leaders) in late winter.
Local Expert Advice
Every region has unique soil and pests. We highly recommend checking with your local university agriculture extension for specific advice.