How to Use Conifers in Island Beds
- 1). Locate upright conifers in an island to add height to the horizontal aspect of a floating garden bed. Place a single 6- to 7-foot high arborvitae or slow-growing Hinoki false cypress on one side of a small island to anchor the design. In larger beds, cluster two or three taller conifers to achieve height and maintain the balance of scale with the rest of the planting area.
- 2). Plant conifers in colors and shapes that complement garden sculptures and hardscape features commonly used in island beds. Set a low-growing variety of Colorado blue spruce next to a birdbath so the conifer's rounded form and blue-colored needles highlight the ornamental fixture's upright style and circular bowl. Place golden threadleaf false cypress in the corner of an island with red or black volcanic stone borders for a bold landscaping statement.
- 3). Replace perennials with conifers in an existing bed if routine maintenance becomes too great a chore, or if the cost of running the water supply out to the island is limiting. Select conifers that thrive in your climate, whether damp or dry, hot or cold. Once established, conifers typically require deep watering only during exceptionally hot, dry conditions. Conifers' natural shapes and evergreen branches rarely need pruning and don't require the deadheading or division that many perennials do.
- 4). Establish year-round visual interest by placing evergreen conifers in an island bed. As the grass surrounding the island and flowers in the bed die back in winter, the conifers' lively shades of green foliage continue to enhance the landscape. Use conifers in the island to provide an oasis in the yard where wild birds find protection from inclement weather.
