4 Proven Evergreen Choices for Linden Landscapes

Creating a landscape with a diversity of plant species in Linden, Michigan, often requires selecting evergreen trees that can withstand the area's harsh winters and hot, dry summers. Evergreen trees provide year-round greenery, privacy, and protection, making them a great addition to almost any landscape design. Four excellent evergreen choices for Linden landscapes are the Green Giant Arborvitae, Concolor Fir, Norway Spruce, and the Black Hills Spruce. These trees are well-suited to Michigan’s climate and offer beauty, durability, and a low-maintenance solution for your yard.

Green Giant Arborvitae

The Green Giant Arborvitae (Thuja standishii x plicata) is a fast-growing and low-maintenance evergreen that thrives in Linden’s climate. Its narrow, upright form and rich green foliage make it perfect for privacy screens, hedges, or as a windbreak. This tree can grow up to 3 feet per year, rapidly establishing a protective barrier from wind and snow.

The Green Giant Arborvitae is also resistant to insect pests, most diseases and deer browsing making it an ideal choice for homeowners who want a quick, hassle-free solution for enhancing their landscape’s privacy and protection.

 Green giant arborvitae used as a screening hedge. | Richard Webb, Bugwood.org

Concolor Fir

The Concolor Fir (Abies concolor) is an attractive evergreen that adds a touch of elegance to any Linden landscape. With its soft, blue-green needles and symmetrical, pyramidal shape, this tree can be a striking focal point in almost any landscape plan.

The Concolor Fir can reach 30 to 50 feet in height, providing impressive vertical interest. Known for its cold tolerance and ability to thrive in dry conditions, this fir species is well-suited to Michigan’s diverse weather patterns. It can also tolerate partial shade, giving you more flexibility when incorporating it into your landscape design.

 Concolor fir tree. | John Ruter, University of Georgia, Bugwood.org

Norway Spruce

The Norway Spruce (Picea abies) is a versatile and fast-growing evergreen that has commonly been used in larger landscapes in Linden. Its tall, pyramidal shape and graceful drooping branches create a stately look, perfect for larger properties or as a backdrop for smaller plants.

Norway Spruce trees can reach heights of 60 feet or more, providing excellent coverage and wind protection. The dense foliage is also great for privacy, while its long cones and dark green needles add visual interest year-round. This tree is highly adaptable to a range of soil types and resistant to cold, making it a reliable and low-maintenance option.

  Norway spruce trees used as a screen. | Richard Webb, Bugwood.org

Black Hills Spruce

For those with smaller yards or those seeking a more compact evergreen, the Black Hills Spruce (Picea glauca var. densata) is a fantastic choice. This tree, native to the Black Hills of South Dakota, features a beautiful pyramidal form and striking blue-green needles.

Growing to 30 to 50 feet tall, it provides privacy and wind protection without overwhelming smaller spaces. The Black Hills Spruce’s cold hardiness makes it a great fit for the cold Michigan winters, and its resistance to most insect pests and diseases ensures that it requires minimal upkeep while maintaining its beauty and health.

                                Black hills spruce, which is a variety of white spruce, has a pyramidal growth habit. | Brett Marshall, Sault College, Bugwood.org

The Final Analysis

In Linden, where winters can be harsh and the summer heat and humidity can be oppressive, selecting the right evergreen tree is an important consideration for creating a beautiful and functional landscape.

The Green Giant Arborvitae, Concolor Fir, Norway Spruce, and Black Hills Spruce are excellent choices, each with their own unique characteristics. They offer benefits such as rapid growth, aesthetic appeal, privacy, and wildlife habitat. These resilient evergreens are well-suited to our local climate and can enhance your landscape year-round, providing protection, beauty, and a low-maintenance solution. Adding these trees to your yard will help you enjoy a green and attractive outdoor space no matter the season.

If you need help deciding which of these evergreen trees would be best for your landscape call Owen Tree and Lawn Care at 800-724-6680 to set up a consultation with one of our ISA Certified Arborists. We can help to determine which type of tree would work best for your specific needs.