Columnar Conifer

Hi Folks

I am seeking some suggestions for purchasing and planting a slim Conifer that can be bought at about 4 to 5 feet high that can be kept in check for height and pruned to keep its shape when achieving a a height of 6 to 9 feet high. I am wanting to plant this about 3 feet from the front of the house.

Any suggestions and advice would be gratefully appreciated.

Many thanks

Richard

 

Hi Richard,

Why on earth would you want to plant any tree, let alone a conifer, 3' from your house? That's just crazy talk, man. Seriously though, even with all the best will in the world to keep it trimmed it's just going to cause you trouble in the future what with soil shrinkage, high water demand, light loss, needle cast and whatnot. I have felled many 'dawrf conifers' that have been as tall as a house. I'd seriously reconsider your choice of tree and position.

 

Keep it in a large pot and you wont have the problems that Treesurfer and Shiney state.

For best effect make sure it receives a good deal of light and turn the pot at least every 3 months.

 

There are a few conifers that can be trusted not to get too big, and can look lovely in the right place. The trick is to do your research before you buy, and not get stuck with a 'dwarf' conifer that then grows bigger than your house. Try something like Taxus baccata 'Standishii' - it's a golden columnar yew that should reach around 6' and not get more than 12"-18" wide....

Helen.