What Is Best Evergreen To Grown In Shade In Zone 6 (Michigan)?

Question

We currently have some arborvitae trees as a natural barrier in our backyard, but after about 30 years they are doing poorly. Our two large maple trees have provided too much shade we think for the arborvitaes. Also it looks like perhaps the squirrels have gone after the bark. They are planted on a berm. In the spring it is very wet at the bottom of the berm. The rest of the year OK. We loved the arborvitae because they made a great barrier and a wonderful place for the birds to hide. But now we don’t know how to replace them. Please what do you suggest

Answer 1

There are many heights and varieties of yew that take shade. Of the needled evergreens, those are your best bet. Another would be hemlock, it can take some shade.

There are many broadleaf evergreens that take shade, such as rhododendrons, azalea, and hollies.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/shgen/evergreen-garden-shrubs.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/shade/evergreens-for-shade.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/mountain-laurel/mountain-laurels-in-winter.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/planting-zones/michigan-planting-zones.htm