By Cris Carl, Networx Conifers, made up primarily of spruce,
fir, pine and hemlock, are an attractive and long-lasting
addition to any landscape. Conifers naturally provide the bonus
of evergreen color, which can serve as a backdrop or simple
visual relief in a stark landscape. Conifers can be used in a
number of creative ways as hedges and in rock gardens. So how do
you get started planting and working with conifers? Before You
Buy Childs said the first thing you want to do is find a
reputable nursery. Second, you want to have your soil tested.
“Everybody forgets about the soil,” said Childs. “Most conifers
prefer a soil that is slightly acidic,” he said. Childs said
that conifers, when they do drop their needles, help to provide
needed soil acidity without overwhelming the tree. Also, be sure
you know what planting zone you are in. For example,
Massachusetts is a Zone 5. Conifers that would thrive on Long
Island, NY (Zone 7), would not be able to tolerate the level of
cold in Massachusetts. Here is a link t