How to Maintain Evergreens
- 1). Water the plants when leaves or needles appear dry. Evergreens can usually survive on normal rainfall; however, during long periods of drought, the plants will need to be watered. Evergreens should also be watered before the soil freezes to prevent winter burn.
- 2). Add organic mulch around the evergreen to retain soil moisture and reduce weeds. Pine needles can also be left as mulch around the base of the tree to enhance the soil environment and provide a rich ecosystem for the roots.
- 3). Apply a high nitrogen fertilizer in early spring or late fall. This is done to encourage new growth or help a diseased tree. Do not apply to newly transplanted evergreens, however, because the chemical may burn their roots.
- 4). Prune evergreens to remove damaged branches and maintain their natural shape. Diseased and damaged branches should be promptly removed to prevent disease and insect infestation. General pruning should take place in early spring or late winter.
- 5). Check your evergreens for pests. Spray new growth in the spring with a dormant oil spray or lime sulfur spray to suffocate any pests which may have taken residence during the winter. Periodically hose off evergreens throughout the summer to eliminate any pests and keep the foliage green.
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