Q: The expensive blue spruce I planted died. Can you suggest another evergreen?

A: I think I threw this caller to the radio show for a loop when my answer was, “you know, I’m having trouble thinking of something”. Thankfully, after hearing me falter, other listeners stepped up and called in with suggestions.

The Colorado blue spruce has such a special color. Buying evergreens suitable to our region/zone, proper soil prep, and consistent moisture during the first year of establishment are the most important things to do to ensure success!

Other trees to consider are Blue Atlas cedar, Blue Point or Blue Arrow juniper, and Carolina Sapphire cypress.

If color isn’t as important, the Georgia Gardener Walter Reeves has a great article about evergreens that make a good privacy screen. Check it out here.

And to see some unique evergreens from all around the world, the most extensive garden I’ve seen is the Cox Arboretum, in Canton, Georgia! Though many on display aren’t intended for North Georgia’s zone 8, owner Tom Cox had a special knack in caring for these exotic specimens. The gardens are worth checking out for inspiration!