20 Foot Evergreen Trees – Your Ultimate Guide To Privacy, Beauty

ByRimon Chowdhury Updated on

Ever dreamed of a garden sanctuary that offers year-round beauty, unparalleled privacy, and a touch of majestic grandeur? You’re not alone! Many gardeners envision a lush, green screen that stands tall and proud, providing a tranquil backdrop to their outdoor living space. That’s where 20 foot evergreen trees come into their own.

Perhaps you’re looking to block out a nosy neighbor, create a natural windbreak, or simply enhance your property with a stately, enduring presence. Whatever your motivation, choosing the right evergreen trees for your landscape can be a truly transformative experience.

In this comprehensive guide from Greeny Gardener, we’re going to dive deep into everything you need to know about selecting, planting, and caring for these magnificent specimens. We’ll share our expert 20 foot evergreen trees tips, walk you through how to 20 foot evergreen trees successfully, and equip you with the knowledge to enjoy a thriving, beautiful landscape for decades to come. Get ready to unlock the secrets to cultivating your perfect evergreen oasis!

Why Choose 20 Foot Evergreen Trees for Your Garden?

When you’re planning your landscape, evergreens offer a unique set of advantages that deciduous trees simply can’t match. And when we talk about 20 foot evergreen trees, these benefits are amplified, providing significant impact.

The benefits of 20 foot evergreen trees extend far beyond just their green foliage. They are true workhorses in the garden, offering solutions to many common landscaping dilemmas.

  • Year-Round Privacy: This is often the number one reason gardeners opt for taller evergreens. Their dense foliage creates an effective visual screen, offering seclusion and peace of mind even in the depths of winter.
  • Natural Windbreak: A line of mature evergreens can significantly reduce wind speeds across your property, protecting less hardy plants, making outdoor living spaces more comfortable, and even potentially lowering heating costs.
  • Noise Reduction: The thick canopy of evergreens helps to absorb sound, creating a quieter, more serene environment in your garden by dampening street noise or other disturbances.
  • Enhanced Property Value: Well-chosen and well-maintained evergreens add curb appeal and perceived value to your home. They demonstrate thoughtful landscaping and a mature, established garden.
  • Ecological Benefits: These trees provide vital habitat and shelter for birds and other wildlife, especially during colder months when other trees are bare.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: The consistent green color provides a beautiful backdrop for flowering plants and shrubs, and offers visual interest when other plants have gone dormant.

Imagine enjoying your morning coffee on the patio, completely shielded from prying eyes, or watching birds flit through the branches of your stately evergreens. These trees aren’t just plants; they’re an investment in your lifestyle and your home’s future.

Top Picks: Best 20 Foot Evergreen Trees for Various Climates

Choosing the right variety is perhaps the most crucial step in your 20 foot evergreen trees guide. The “best” tree depends heavily on your local climate, soil conditions, and specific needs. Here are some fantastic options that generally reach or can be maintained around the 20-foot mark, along with their ideal characteristics.

Thuja ‘Green Giant’ (Arborvitae)

This is a superstar for a reason! ‘Green Giant’ is a fast-growing hybrid arborvitae known for its dense, deep green foliage and conical shape. It’s incredibly robust and relatively low-maintenance, making it a fantastic choice for hedges and screens.

  • Growth Rate: Very fast, often 3-5 feet per year.
  • Hardiness Zones: 5-9.
  • Sun Needs: Full sun to partial shade.
  • Pros: Deer resistant, disease resistant, adaptable to various soils, excellent for privacy.
  • Cons: Can get quite wide if not occasionally pruned; needs good drainage.

Leyland Cypress

Another popular choice for quick privacy, the Leyland Cypress boasts a graceful pyramidal form and soft, feathery foliage. It grows quickly and creates a dense screen.

  • Growth Rate: Fast, 3-4 feet per year.
  • Hardiness Zones: 6-10.
  • Sun Needs: Full sun.
  • Pros: Excellent for fast screening, tolerant of coastal conditions, adaptable to different soils.
  • Cons: Can be prone to diseases like Seiridium Canker in humid climates; requires good air circulation.

Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana)

Don’t let the name fool you – it’s actually a juniper! This native evergreen is incredibly tough and adaptable, thriving in a wide range of conditions, including poor soil and drought.

  • Growth Rate: Moderate to fast, 1-2 feet per year.
  • Hardiness Zones: 2-9.
  • Sun Needs: Full sun.
  • Pros: Extremely drought tolerant once established, provides excellent wildlife habitat, tolerates harsh conditions.
  • Cons: Can have a more open habit than other screening evergreens; needles can be prickly.

Norway Spruce (Picea abies)

For those in colder climates, the Norway Spruce is a classic choice. It’s a majestic tree with dark green needles and graceful, pendulous branches that sweep downwards. It offers a more formal, stately look.

  • Growth Rate: Moderate to fast, 1-2 feet per year.
  • Hardiness Zones: 2-7.
  • Sun Needs: Full sun.
  • Pros: Very cold hardy, long-lived, excellent windbreak, provides winter interest.
  • Cons: Needs ample space to grow, can be susceptible to spruce gall adelgid.

Green Arrow Weeping Alaska Cedar (Chamaecyparis nootkatensis ‘Green Arrow’)

If you’re looking for something with a bit more unique character, ‘Green Arrow’ offers a stunning, narrow, weeping form. It’s perfect for a dramatic focal point or a narrow screening solution.

  • Growth Rate: Moderate, 1-2 feet per year.
  • Hardiness Zones: 4-7.
  • Sun Needs: Full sun to partial shade.
  • Pros: Distinctive architectural form, beautiful blue-green foliage, relatively low maintenance.
  • Cons: Slower growing than Thuja or Leyland, can be pricier.

Always check your specific USDA Hardiness Zone and local nursery recommendations to ensure the best fit for your microclimate. A little research now saves a lot of heartache later!

Mastering the Art of Planting Your New Evergreen Giants

So, you’ve chosen your perfect 20 foot evergreen trees. Now comes the exciting part: getting them into the ground! Proper planting is absolutely critical for the long-term health and success of your trees. Think of it as laying the foundation for a skyscraper – you want it strong and stable.

Site Selection and Soil Preparation

Before you even dig, consider the location. Most evergreens prefer full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily) and well-draining soil. Avoid areas where water tends to collect after rain.

  • Check for Utilities: Before digging, always call 811 (in the US) or your local utility locate service to mark underground lines. This is non-negotiable for safety!
  • Soil Test: If you’re unsure about your soil, a soil test can tell you about its pH and nutrient levels. Most evergreens prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil.
  • Improve Drainage: If your soil is heavy clay, consider amending it with organic matter like compost or aged manure. This improves drainage and aeration, which is vital for evergreen roots.
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The Digging and Planting Process

This is where the rubber meets the road. Follow these steps for successful planting:

  1. Dig the Right Size Hole: Dig a hole that is two to three times wider than the root ball, but only as deep as the root ball itself. The top of the root ball should be level with or slightly above the surrounding soil. This is one of the most important 20 foot evergreen trees best practices.
  2. Prepare the Tree: Gently remove the tree from its container. If it’s balled and burlapped, carefully cut away any twine or wire from the trunk and pull back the burlap from the top third of the root ball. Inspect the roots; if they are circling, gently tease them apart or make a few vertical cuts with a clean knife to encourage outward growth.
  3. Position the Tree: Place the tree in the center of the hole, ensuring the root collar (where the trunk flares out at the base) is at or slightly above ground level. This prevents future problems like root rot.
  4. Backfill Carefully: Begin backfilling the hole with the soil you dug out, gently tamping it down to remove large air pockets. Avoid compacting the soil too much. You can mix in some compost with your native soil if desired, but avoid rich potting mixes that can create a “bathtub effect.”
  5. Create a Water Basin: Form a small berm or ridge of soil around the edge of the planting hole to create a basin. This will help direct water towards the root zone.
  6. Water Thoroughly: Water deeply immediately after planting. This helps settle the soil around the roots and eliminates any remaining air pockets.
  7. Mulch: Apply a 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch (like wood chips or shredded bark) over the root zone, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk. Mulch helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.

Remember, patience is a virtue. Your tree might look small now, but with proper planting, it will soon be on its way to becoming a magnificent 20 foot evergreen tree!

Essential 20 Foot Evergreen Trees Care Guide: Nurturing Your Investment

Once your evergreens are in the ground, the journey has just begun! Consistent care, especially in the first few years, is crucial for establishing strong, healthy trees. This 20 foot evergreen trees care guide will help you keep your giants thriving.

Watering Wisdom for Young and Mature Trees

Watering is paramount, especially for newly planted evergreens. They need consistent moisture to establish their root systems.

  • New Trees (First 1-2 Years): Water deeply 1-3 times a week, depending on rainfall and soil type. The goal is to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Check the soil moisture about 4-6 inches deep before watering.
  • Mature Trees: Once established, evergreens are generally more drought-tolerant. However, prolonged dry spells, especially in late summer or fall, can still stress them. Provide supplemental deep watering during these times, particularly before winter dormancy.
  • Deep vs. Frequent: Always aim for deep watering. This encourages roots to grow downwards, making the tree more resilient. Shallow, frequent watering leads to shallow roots.

Fertilizing for Optimal Growth

Evergreens are generally not heavy feeders. Often, the organic matter added during planting is sufficient for the first year or two.

  • When to Fertilize: If your soil test indicates a deficiency or your tree shows signs of nutrient stress (e.g., pale foliage, poor growth), you can fertilize in early spring or late fall.
  • Type of Fertilizer: Use a slow-release granular fertilizer formulated for evergreens or trees and shrubs. Look for a balanced NPK ratio (e.g., 10-10-10) or one slightly higher in nitrogen for foliage growth.
  • Application: Follow package directions carefully. Spread the fertilizer evenly under the canopy, avoiding direct contact with the trunk. Water thoroughly after application.

Pruning for Health and Shape

Pruning 20 foot evergreen trees helps maintain their shape, density, and health. Most evergreens don’t require heavy annual pruning once established, but occasional maintenance is beneficial.

  • When to Prune: The best time to prune most evergreens is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins, or in mid-summer after the initial flush of growth has hardened off. Avoid pruning in late fall, as new growth might not harden before winter.
  • What to Prune:
    • Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches immediately.
    • Thin out crowded branches to improve air circulation, especially in the interior of dense trees like arborvitae.
    • Lightly shape the tree to maintain its desired form. Avoid cutting into old wood on arborvitae and Leyland cypress, as they may not regenerate.
    • For hedges, shear lightly and regularly to encourage dense growth.
  • Tools: Use sharp, clean pruning shears, loppers, or a pruning saw. Clean your tools between cuts, especially if removing diseased branches, to prevent spreading pathogens.

Tackling Common Problems with 20 Foot Evergreen Trees

Even the most robust evergreens can encounter issues. Being able to identify and address common problems with 20 foot evergreen trees early can save your investment and keep your garden looking its best.

Browning Needles and Dieback

This is a common concern for many evergreen owners. The cause can range from natural processes to serious issues.

  • Natural Shedding: Evergreens shed their oldest needles periodically, usually in late summer or fall. This browning occurs on the interior of the tree and is perfectly normal.
  • Drought Stress: Lack of water is a frequent culprit. Ensure consistent, deep watering, especially during dry periods.
  • Winter Burn: In cold, sunny, windy conditions, needles can dry out and turn brown, especially on the exposed side of the tree. Adequate fall watering and anti-desiccant sprays can help.
  • Root Rot: Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot, causing needles to brown and the tree to decline. Improve drainage if this is the case.

Pests to Watch Out For

A few common pests can target evergreens. Regular inspection is your best defense.

  • Spider Mites: Tiny pests that suck sap, causing needles to look stippled or dusty and eventually turn brown. Look for fine webbing. Treat with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
  • Bagworms: Caterpillars that build distinctive, cone-shaped bags from silk and plant material. They defoliate trees. Hand-pick bags in fall/winter or treat with Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) when caterpillars are young.
  • Aphids: Small, soft-bodied insects that cluster on new growth, causing distortion and sticky honeydew. Treat with insecticidal soap.
  • Borers: Larvae that tunnel under the bark, weakening the tree. Often indicated by sawdust-like frass or small holes. Prevention through good tree health is key; severely infested trees may need removal.

Diseases and Fungal Issues

Environmental conditions often play a big role in disease susceptibility.

  • Cankers: Sunken, discolored lesions on branches or trunks, often leading to dieback. Prune out affected branches promptly during dry weather.
  • Blight (e.g., Phomopsis Blight): Fungal diseases causing new growth to brown and die back. Common on junipers and arborvitae. Prune out infected parts, improve air circulation, and consider fungicides in severe cases.
  • Needle Cast: Fungal diseases causing older needles to turn yellow or brown and drop prematurely. Often worse in wet, humid conditions. Fungicides can be used, but proper air circulation and spacing are crucial.
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When in doubt, take a sample of the affected foliage to your local extension office or a reputable garden center for diagnosis. Early detection is key for effective treatment!

Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Practices for Your Evergreens

At Greeny Gardener, we’re all about gardening that’s good for you and the planet. Adopting sustainable 20 foot evergreen trees practices ensures your beautiful trees thrive while minimizing environmental impact.

Choosing Native and Adapted Varieties

Opting for evergreens that are native to your region or well-adapted to your climate is the cornerstone of eco-friendly gardening. These trees are naturally more resistant to local pests and diseases, and require less water and fertilizer once established.

  • Reduced Inputs: Less need for chemical pesticides, fungicides, and excessive fertilizers.
  • Water Efficiency: Native plants are accustomed to local rainfall patterns, reducing the need for supplemental irrigation.
  • Biodiversity: They support local wildlife, offering food and shelter to native birds, insects, and other creatures.

Consider the Eastern Red Cedar we mentioned earlier – it’s a fantastic native choice for many parts of North America.

Water Conservation Techniques

Smart watering is not just about keeping your trees healthy; it’s about conserving a precious resource.

  • Deep and Infrequent: As discussed, this encourages strong, deep root systems.
  • Mulching: A 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch significantly reduces water evaporation from the soil.
  • Drip Irrigation/Soaker Hoses: These deliver water directly to the root zone, minimizing waste from evaporation and runoff compared to overhead sprinklers.
  • Rainwater Harvesting: Consider collecting rainwater in barrels to use for irrigation.

Organic Pest and Disease Management

Before reaching for chemical solutions, explore organic and integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.

  • Beneficial Insects: Encourage natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings, which feed on common pests like aphids and mites.
  • Cultural Practices: Maintain good plant hygiene, ensure proper spacing for air circulation, and avoid over-fertilizing (which can lead to lush, tender growth that attracts pests).
  • Horticultural Oils and Soaps: These are effective against many soft-bodied pests and are less harmful to beneficial insects and the environment than broad-spectrum pesticides.
  • Hand-Picking: For larger pests like bagworms, physically removing them is often the most eco-friendly solution.

Embracing these eco-friendly 20 foot evergreen trees practices means you’re not just growing beautiful trees, but you’re also contributing to a healthier ecosystem right in your own backyard!

Frequently Asked Questions About 20 Foot Evergreen Trees

How fast do 20 foot evergreen trees grow?

Growth rates vary significantly by species. Some, like Thuja ‘Green Giant’ and Leyland Cypress, can grow 3-5 feet per year under ideal conditions, reaching 20 feet in as little as 4-7 years. Others, like certain spruces or pines, might grow 1-2 feet per year, taking 10-15 years to reach that height. Always check the specific growth rate for the variety you choose.

What is the best spacing for 20 foot evergreen trees for a privacy hedge?

For a dense privacy hedge, you generally want to plant trees closer together than their mature spread. A good rule of thumb is to space them at half to two-thirds of their mature width. For example, if a tree is expected to be 8 feet wide at maturity, plant them 4-6 feet apart on center. This allows them to grow together and form a solid screen.

Do 20 foot evergreen trees require a lot of maintenance?

Compared to many flowering trees or shrubs, established 20 foot evergreen trees are often considered low-maintenance. The most intensive period is the first 1-3 years, when consistent watering is crucial for establishment. After that, they typically need only occasional watering during dry spells, minimal pruning for health and shape, and infrequent fertilization if needed. Regular inspection for pests and diseases is a good practice.

Can I keep my evergreen trees from growing taller than 20 feet?

Yes, with careful and consistent pruning, you can often maintain evergreens at a desired height. However, it’s generally easier to choose a variety that naturally matures closer to your target height. For trees like Thuja ‘Green Giant’, regular tip pruning of the leader and side branches can help manage their size. Always research the specific pruning needs of your chosen species, as some evergreens (like pines) respond better to certain pruning techniques than others.

When is the best time to plant 20 foot evergreen trees?

The ideal time to plant evergreens is typically in the fall (late August to October) or early spring (March to May), when temperatures are moderate. This allows the trees to establish their root systems before the stress of summer heat or winter cold. Fall planting is often preferred as the soil is still warm, encouraging root growth, and the trees have several months to settle in before spring growth begins.

Your Greeny Gardener Journey Continues!

Congratulations! You’re now equipped with a wealth of knowledge to confidently choose, plant, and care for magnificent 20 foot evergreen trees in your garden. From selecting the perfect variety to mastering planting techniques and addressing common challenges, you have a solid foundation for success.

Remember, gardening is a journey of learning and discovery. Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty, observe your trees closely, and adjust your care as needed. These majestic evergreens are more than just plants; they are living legacies that will provide beauty, privacy, and ecological benefits for many years to come.

So, take these 20 foot evergreen trees tips to heart, follow the 20 foot evergreen trees best practices, and start envisioning the stunning transformation your garden is about to undergo. Go forth and grow your incredible evergreen oasis – your future self (and your garden!) will thank you!

Rimon Chowdhury
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