Talk to gardening experts and most of them will tell you that evergreen shrubs are the cornerstone of a well-designed garden. After all, they provide so much interest all year round with their structure, texture, and colour. And it really doesn’t matter what size or type of garden you have—whether that is a compact urban garden, a cottage-style border, or a low-maintenance patio space. Wherever you garden, evergreen shrubs will be the perfect space filler.

One of the great things about evergreen shrubs is that many only need minimal upkeep, which makes them ideal for any gardener, no matter their level of experience. In other words, it doesn’t matter if you have green fingers or don’t have a clue—you can plant and enjoy evergreen shrubs in your garden.

What Is an Evergreen Shrub?

But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. For those new to gardening, let’s start at the beginning. The term "evergreen" refers to plants that retain their leaves and colour throughout the year, rather than shedding them in autumn like deciduous plants. This means they provide continuous colour, texture, and structure in your garden. Even in the depths of winter, you can enjoy your garden. And who wouldn’t want that?

The really good news is that if you’re going to plant some evergreens in your garden, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding which shrubs to plant. They come in so many different varieties and can be used for different things in the garden such as:

• Adding year-round greenery to borders and pots.
• Providing shelter to birds and pollinators.
• Acting as a backdrop for seasonal plants like perennials and bulbs.
• Larger evergreens can make natural privacy screens.

You’ve Got to Love Evergreens

Unlike deciduous plants that shed their leaves in winter, evergreen shrubs keep their foliage all year round. But there are other reasons why you should love—or more importantly, plant—evergreen shrubs:

• Low Maintenance – Many varieties only need an occasional trim and some seasonal feeding to keep them healthy.
• All-Year Interest – Keep your garden looking bright and cheerful even during winter.
• Wildlife Friendly – Some shrubs will provide shelter, nectar, and berries for birds and pollinators.
• Privacy and Structure – Evergreens like conifers can act as living screens and hedges.
• Drought and Cold Hardy – Many evergreen shrubs are extremely hardy. Let’s face it—they have to be to survive a British winter!

Hardy Enough for the UK?

We all know the British climate is unpredictable. You never know what the weather is going to throw at you. But evergreens will adapt well to frost, damp conditions, and exposure to wind, making them suitable for gardens across the country.

That said, it’s always worth considering:

• Soil type – Some evergreens thrive in acidic soil (e.g., Camellias), while others prefer alkaline conditions.
• Shelter from strong winds – If your garden is exposed, opt for tough species like Osmanthus or Pyracantha.
• Drainage – While most evergreen shrubs are hardy, they dislike waterlogged soil—improving drainage can be key to success in this kind of environment.

What About Evergreens in Pots?

You can (within reason) grow just about any plant in a pot, and evergreen shrubs are no exception. They are ideal for:

• Balconies and patios, where space is limited.
• Small gardens, where the borders may already be full.
• Providing flexibility in the garden, as potted plants can be moved as needed.

Tips for Growing Evergreens in Pots

• Choose a large pot – At least 30-40cm in diameter, with drainage holes.
• Use quality compost – A mix of John Innes No.3 with added grit is ideal for drainage.
• Water regularly – Potted plants dry out faster than those in borders, especially in summer.
• Feed in spring – A slow-release fertiliser once a year will be great for your plant.
• Repot every 2-3 years – Refreshing the compost will keep the plant healthy.

Top 10 Low-Maintenance Evergreens

Here’s a selection of evergreen shrubs you could consider for your next planting session. All of these are available from our nursery for delivery to your door.

• Escallonia ‘Iveyii’ – Glossy-leaved shrub with profuse summer blooms, excellent for informal hedging.
• Osmanthus heterophyllus ‘Goshiki’ – Holly-like leaves with striking variegation; ideal for shady spots.
• Olearia haastii (Daisy Bush) – Sun-loving, wind-tolerant shrub covered in white daisies in summer.
• Escallonia ‘Pink Elle’ – Compact, floriferous variety producing stunning pink flowers.
• Ceanothus ‘Skylark’ (Californian Lilac) – Low-growing shrub with bright blue flowers in late spring.
• Choisya ternata (Mexican Orange Blossom) – Fragrant white flowers and lush green foliage.
• Escallonia ‘Macrantha Rubra’ – Deep pink-red flowers on a neat, rounded shrub.
• Pyracantha ‘Mohave Red’ (Firethorn) – Evergreen shrub with white flowers and bold red berries.
• Nandina domestica (Heavenly Bamboo) – Fine-leaved shrub that turns crimson in winter.
• Viburnum davidii – Compact grower with distinctive dark green leaves and blue berries.

Final Thoughts

Evergreen shrubs are a must-have for any small garden. Whether you prefer a classic cottage garden look or a modern minimalist space, there’s an evergreen for you.

If you're ready to add year-round beauty to your garden, explore the range of quality evergreen shrubs available at Direct Plants today.

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