How to Grow Hardy Evergreen Shrubs - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2025

Hardy evergreen shrubs is a type of plant that is perfect for those who want to add some greenery to their yards but do not want to deal with the hassle of maintaining a traditional garden. These plants are also ideal for those who live in areas with cold winters, as they will not die if the temperature dips below freezing. Some of the most popular hardy evergreen shrubs include boxwood, rosemary, and lavender.

How to Grow Hardy Evergreen Shrubs - Plant Care & Tips

Alternative name

  • Spotted laurel
  • Mountain laurel
  • Sheep laurel
  • English laurel
  • Portuguese laurel

Common Knowledge

  • Hardy evergreen shrubs are a great choice for low-maintenance landscaping.
  • They are available in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and colors.
  • Hardy evergreen shrubs are tolerant of a variety of growing conditions.
  • They are relatively easy to care for, and require little pruning.
  • Hardy evergreen shrubs can provide year-round interest in the landscape.
  • They are a good choice for foundation plantings and hedges.
  • Hardy evergreen shrubs are generally deer resistant.
  • They can be susceptible to damage from heavy winds and ice storms.
  • Hardy evergreen shrubs can be propagated from cuttings.
  • Some of the most popular varieties include boxwood, holly, and yew.

Related plant:
Hardy Gardenia

Planting Process

  1. For hardy evergreen shrubs, first step is to find an area in full sun or partial shade.
  2. Then, till the soil to a depth of about 8 inches.
  3. Next, mix in some organic matter such as compost or manure.
  4. After that, take your shrub and dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
  5. Place the shrub in the hole and backfill with the soil mixture.
  6. Firm the soil around the base of the shrub.
  7. Water the shrub deeply.
  8. Spread a 2-inch layer of mulch around the shrub, but keep it away from the stems.
  9. Fertilize the shrub in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
  10. Prune the shrub as needed to maintain its shape.

Related plant:
Gardenia Jasminoides Kleim's Hardy

Considering the Soil

About soil condition, Hardy evergreen shrubs can grow in a wide variety of soil conditions as long as the soil is well-drained. They are tolerant of both dry and wet soils, and can even grow in heavy clay soils. However, they will not tolerate soils that are consistently soggy or waterlogged.

Light condition

So, like the other plants, evergreen shrubs need sunlight to grow. However, these hardy plants can tolerate less sunlight than most other types of plants. In fact, evergreen shrubs can do well in shady areas where other plants would struggle. If you're looking for a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a range of lighting conditions, an evergreen shrub is a good option.

The Temperature

The temperature condition is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing hardy evergreen shrubs. Some shrubs are more tolerant of cold weather than others, so it is important to know what the minimum temperature is for the shrub you are considering. If the temperature gets too cold, the shrub will not be able to survive.

Ideal Humidity

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 60% to 70%. Hardy evergreen shrubs can tolerate a wide range of humidity conditions, but they will thrive best in an environment that is not too dry or too wet. If the air is too dry, the leaves of the plant will begin to turn brown and drop off. If the air is too wet, the leaves of the plant will begin to rot.

The Fertilizer

Mentioning fertilizer, this kind of plant needs plenty of organic matter in order to maintain good growth. Incorporate some type of fertilizer when planting and continued throughout the growing season. Look for a fertilizer that has a low nitrogen content and is higher in phosphorus and potassium. As for the roots, they like to stay on the moist side but not too wet. Amend the soil with organic matter to help with drainage and to keep the roots cooler in the summer. Hardy evergreen shrubs are pretty versatile when it comes to soil but prefer a well-drained soil.

Light requirement

Pruning is an important part of caring for hardy evergreen shrubs. By pruning, you can encourage new growth, remove damaged or diseased branches, and control the shape and size of the shrub. Evergreen shrubs can be pruned in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. When pruning, be sure to use sharp, clean pruning shears. Make sure to make cuts at a 45-degree angle, just above a bud or branch.

About Propagating

Propagation is best done by taking semi-ripe cuttings in late summer. Take the cuttings from new growth at the tips of the stems. Cut just below a leaf node with a sharp knife or pruning shears. The cutting should be 4-6 inches long.Remove the lower leaves from the cutting, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Stick the cutting in a pot filled with moistened perlite, vermiculite, or sand. Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag, and place it in a bright, warm location out of direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist, but not soggy, and in 4-8 weeks the cutting should have rooted and will be ready to transplant.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate is relatively slow. However, there are a few varieties that grow at a medium to fast rate. When choosing a shrub, it is important to consider the adult size of the plant and how long it will take to reach that size.

Common Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are pests and diseases. Pests include aphids, scale insects, and whitefly. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Diseases include root rot, stem rot, and leaf spot. These diseases can be controlled with fungicides.

Tips on Growing

  • Remember to water your hardy evergreen shrubs regularly, especially when they are young.
  • Fertilize your shrubs every spring to help them grow.
  • Prune your shrubs regularly to keep them healthy and looking their best.
  • Choose a location for your shrubs that receives plenty of sunlight.
  • Plant your hardy evergreen shrubs in well-draining soil.
  • Space your shrubs properly to allow for adequate air circulation.
  • Protect your shrubs from extreme weather conditions.
  • Keep an eye out for pests and diseases.
  • Harvest any berries or cones that your shrubs produce.
  • Enjoy your beautiful, healthy hardy evergreen shrubs!

Similar Plants

  • Hardy Bamboo
  • Hardy Gerberas
  • Hardy Fuchsias
  • Hardy Hibiscus
  • Hardy Mandevillas
  • Hardy New Zealand Flax
  • Hardy Osteospermums
  • Hardy Roses
  • Hardy Shrubs
  • Hardy Trees

Source:
Evergreen Trees & Shrubs – Wisconsin Horticulture
Evergreen Shrubs - 7.414 - Extension
Selecting Landscape Plants: Broad-leaved Evergreens

Richelle Author Photo
Reviewed & Published by Richelle
Submitted by our contributor
Shrubs Category