The Fast and the Coniferous: A Guide to Quick Growing Conifers

When it comes to landscaping, everyone wants to see their trees grow fast and strong. That's why conifers are such a popular choice for homeowners and landscapers alike. Conifers are evergreen trees that produce cones, and they come in many shapes and sizes. Some of them can grow very quickly, which makes them a great option if you want to add some greenery to your garden or yard in a short amount of time.

What Are Conifers?

Conifers are trees and shrubs that belong to the group of plants called gymnosperms. They have needle-like or scale-like leaves that are usually evergreen, which means they stay green all year round. Conifers also produce cones instead of flowers, which contain the seeds for the next generation of trees. There are over 600 species of conifers, including pines, spruces, firs, cedars, and more.

Why Choose Quick Growing Conifers?

There are several reasons why you might want to choose quick growing conifers for your landscaping needs. First of all, they can provide privacy and shade in a short amount of time. If you have neighbors nearby or live on a busy street, planting some quick growing conifers can help block out noise and provide a natural barrier. Additionally, conifers are low maintenance and don't require as much water or pruning as other types of trees. Finally, they can add some much-needed greenery to your property, especially if you live in an urban area.

Factors to Consider

Before you planting quick growing conifers, there are a few factors you should consider. First of all, you'll want to think about the size and shape of the tree. Some conifers can grow very tall and wide, which might not be ideal for your space. Additionally, you'll want to think about the climate in your area, as some conifers prefer cooler temperatures or more moist soil. Finally, you'll want to consider the amount of sunlight and shade in your yard, as some conifers require more sun than others.

Size and Shape

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing quick growing conifers is the size and shape of the tree. Some conifers can grow up to 100 feet tall, while others stay relatively small. Additionally, some conifers have a narrow, columnar shape, while others are more pyramidal or round. You'll want to choose a conifer that fits well in your space and won't grow too large for your yard.

Climate

Another important factor to consider when choosing quick growing conifers is the climate in your area. Some conifers prefer cooler temperatures, while others can tolerate heat and drought. Additionally, some conifers prefer more moist soil, while others can handle dry conditions. Make sure to choose a conifer that will thrive in your climate and soil type.

Sunlight and Shade

Finally, you'll want to consider the amount of sunlight and shade in your yard. Some conifers require full sun to grow properly, while others can tolerate partial shade. Additionally, you'll want to think about how much shade the conifer will provide once it's fully grown. If you're planting conifers for privacy or shade, make sure to choose a variety that will provide the amount of coverage you need.

Top Quick Growing Conifers

Now that you know what to look for when choosing quick growing conifers, let's take a look at some of the top varieties.

Eastern White Pine (Pinus strobus)

The Eastern White Pine is a fast-growing conifer that can grow up to 100 feet tall. It prefers full sun and moist soil, and can tolerate heat and drought. This tree has soft, blue-green needles and produces large cones that can be used for crafts or decorations.

Norway Spruce (Picea abies)

The Norway Spruce is another fast-growing conifer that can reach heights of up to 60 feet. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil, and can tolerate cold temperatures. This tree has dark green needles and produces small cones that are popular with birds.

Colorado Blue Spruce (Picea pungens)

The Colorado Blue Spruce is a popular choice for landscaping due to its distinctive blue-gray needles. It can grow up to 75 feet tall and prefers full sun and well-drained soil. This tree is tolerant of heat and drought, but can be susceptible to insect damage.

Leyland Cypress (Cupressus leylandii)

The Leyland Cypress is a fast-growing evergreen tree that can reach heights of up to 50 feet. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil, and can tolerate heat and drought. This tree has soft, feathery foliage and provides excellent privacy.

Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum)

The Bald Cypress is a deciduous conifer that is native to the southeastern United States. It can grow up to 100 feet tall and prefers wet soil and full sun. This tree has soft, needle-like leaves that turn a beautiful orange-brown in the fall.

Care and Maintenance

Once you've chosen your quick growing conifers, it's important to take care of them properly. Here are a few tips for maintaining healthy, happy trees.

Watering

Most conifers prefer well-drained soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Make sure to water your trees deeply once a week during dry spells, and avoid overwatering.

Fertilizing

Conifers don't require much fertilizer, but you can give them a boost by applying a slow-release fertilizer in the spring.

Pruning

Conifers generally don't require pruning, but you can remove any dead or damaged branches as needed.

Pest and Disease Control

Some conifers are susceptible to pests and diseases, such as spider mites, aphids, and needle blight. Keep an eye out for any signs of infestation or disease, and treat promptly if necessary.

FAQs

1. How fast do quick growing conifers grow?

The growth rate of conifers varies depending on the species, but some can grow several feet per year.

2. Can I plant conifers in containers?

Yes, many conifers can be planted in containers as long as they have enough room for their roots to grow.

3. Are conifers good for privacy?

Yes, many conifers are great for providing privacy due to their dense foliage and tall height.

4. Do conifers lose their needles?

Most conifers are evergreen, which means they keep their needles all year round. However, some deciduous conifers do lose their needles in the fall.

5. Can I use conifer cones for crafts?

Yes, many conifer cones are popular for crafting and decorating purposes.


Quick growing conifers can be a great addition to any landscape, providing privacy, shade, and greenery in a short amount of time. By considering factors such as size, climate, and sunlight, you can choose the best conifers for your space and take care of them properly to ensure healthy growth. Whether you're planting for privacy or aesthetics, there's a quick growing conifer out there that's perfect for your needs.

Sure thing! In that case, let's talk about some quick-growing conifers that might be suitable for your needs.

One option is the Leyland Cypress, which can grow up to 3 feet per year and reach a height of 60-70 feet. It's a popular choice for privacy screens and windbreaks due to its dense foliage and fast growth rate.

Another quick-growing conifer to consider is the Eastern White Pine, which can grow up to 2 feet per year and reach a height of 80-100 feet. It's a great option if you're looking for a tall, elegant tree with soft needles and a classic conical shape.

If you're interested in something a bit more unique, you might want to check out the Serbian Spruce. It can grow up to 18 inches per year and reach a height of 40-50 feet. Its distinctive blue-green needles and narrow shape make it an eye-catching addition to any landscape.

Of course, there are many other types of quick-growing conifers to choose from, so I encourage you to do some research and find the one that best suits your needs and preferences. Good luck with your blog post! Of course! Is there something specific you would like to talk about or ask me?