Flat Growing Conifers: The Low Maintenance Trees for Your Garden

What are Flat Growing Conifers?

Flat growing conifers, also known as low-growing conifers, are a type of evergreen tree that naturally grows in a flat or spreading habit. Unlike most trees, they grow horizontally instead of vertically, making them perfect for ground cover or border plants.

The Benefits of Flat Growing Conifers

There are many benefits to planting flat growing conifers in your garden. Here are just a few:

Ease of Maintenance

Flat growing conifers are incredibly low maintenance. They require very little pruning and don't need to be watered as frequently as other plants. Plus, their spreading habit means that they don't take up much vertical space, so you don't have to worry about trimming back any overgrown branches.

All-Year-Round Interest

Because flat growing conifers are evergreens, they provide year-round interest in your garden. Their dense foliage also acts as a great backdrop for other plants and flowers.

Drought Tolerance

Many flat growing conifers are native to arid regions and are therefore drought tolerant. This makes them a great choice for gardens in dry climates or areas with water restrictions.

Attract Wildlife

The dense foliage of flat growing conifers provides a great habitat for birds and other wildlife. Many species of birds also use the branches as nesting sites.

Choosing the Right Flat Growing Conifer

When choosing a flat growing conifer, it's important to consider the conditions in your garden. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Size

Flat growing conifers come in a wide range of sizes, from small ground cover plants to larger shrubs. Make sure to choose a size that suits the space you have available.

Light Requirements

Most flat growing conifers prefer full sun or partial shade. Make sure to choose a species that is suited to the light conditions in your garden.

Soil Type

Flat growing conifers prefer well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, consider planting in raised beds or containers.

Planting and Caring for Flat Growing Conifers

Here are some tips for planting and caring for flat growing conifers:

Planting

Before planting, make sure to prepare the soil by digging in compost or other organic matter. Dig a hole that is slightly wider than the root ball of the plant, and make sure to plant at the same depth as it was in its container.

Watering

Flat growing conifers don't require as much water as other plants, but they still need to be kept moist during their first year in the ground. After that, they can usually survive on rainfall alone.

Fertilizing

Flat growing conifers don't require much fertilizer, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in early spring can help promote growth.

Pruning

Flat growing conifers require very little pruning. If you do need to prune, make sure to do so in early spring before new growth appears.

Popular Species of Flat Growing Conifers

There are many species of flat growing conifers to choose from. Here are a few popular options:

Juniperus horizontalis

Juniperus horizontalis, also known as creeping juniper, is a popular ground cover plant that grows to around 1 foot tall and can spread up to 8 feet wide.

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Nana'

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Nana', also known as dwarf Hinoki cypress, is a slow-growing shrub that reaches around 5 feet tall and 4 feet wide.

Picea pungens 'Procumbens'

Picea pungens 'Procumbens', also known as prostrate blue spruce, is a low-growing evergreen that reaches around 2 feet tall and can spread up to 8 feet wide.

FAQs

Q: Are flat growing conifers suitable for all gardens?

A: While flat growing conifers are suitable for many gardens, it's important to choose a species that is suited to the conditions in your garden.

Q: Do flat growing conifers require much maintenance?

A: No, flat growing conifers are very low maintenance and require very little pruning or watering.

Q: Can flat growing conifers be used as border plants?

A: Yes, flat growing conifers are a great choice for border plants due to their spreading habit.

Q: Do flat growing conifers attract wildlife?

A: Yes, the dense foliage of flat growing conifers provides a great habitat for birds and other wildlife.

Q: Are flat growing conifers drought tolerant?

A: Many species of flat growing conifers are native to arid regions and are therefore drought tolerant.