So you want to plant a few trees, but face an overwhelming selection at the garden centre. Should you opt for a deciduous species or plant an evergreen tree? Both types provide benefits and present challenges, although one might serve your purposes better. Think about what you want from your tree before making your choice.

Major Differences

The most noticeable difference between deciduous and evergreen trees involves the foliage. Deciduous trees lose their leaves in the autumn months, while evergreen (also known as coniferous trees) retain their foliage all year long. Evergreen needles eventually drop, however these trees do maintain full shape for an extended period of time.

Shape is another difference. Most deciduous trees display branches and foliage on the crown or top of the trunk. Evergreen trees grow branches in an inverted cone, with more width across the bottom and a peaked crown. This generalization doesn't fit every tree, but it's a good differential to keep in mind when choosing between the two.

Your Intended Purpose

Think about what you want from your tree. If you're looking to create shade in the summer months, decreasing cooling costs without blocking the sun in winter, a deciduous tree is best. Evergreen trees provide some shade, but not in the high heat of the day. Lower foliage casts a shadow in the morning and late afternoon.

Evergreen trees work well as wind blocks, and support your heating system in winter. Northern areas of the U.S.A. and properties that experience high winds garner the most benefit from evergreens.

It's best to have a healthy mix of deciduous and evergreen trees in your yard. The deciduous offer beautiful fall foliage and good shade coverage once full grown. Evergreens provide privacy and act as a windbreak for years, while offering visual interest in your winter garden. If you have the room and can afford both, planting evergreen and deciduous trees will beautify and complete your landscape.