From pines and spruces to firs and cedars, evergreens are an important part of many landscapes in Illinois. Join us as we explore what makes these plants unique, how they thrive in tough conditions, and why they’re holiday favorites. Plus, we share some tips for caring for evergreens, choosing the right species for your landscape, and creative ways to repurpose your Christmas tree.

Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/5y6VlnF24go

Skip to what you want to know:  

  00:34 – Welcome. Talking evergreens and episode 300!

  03:02 – Definition time: evergreen, conifer, deciduous conifer, etc.

  06:51 – What is the benefit of retaining leaves (being evergreen)?

  08:59 – Common evergreens in Illinois landscapes

    09:17 – Pines

    10:52 – Spruce and fir trees

      14:58 – Unusual fir Christmas tree problems no scent and weak limbs

      17:26 – Is a Douglas-fir a true fir tree?

    19:15 – When a pinecone isn't a pinecone, differentiating conifer cones

    21:10 – Cypress family - bald cypress, arborvitae, eastern red cedar

    25:38 – Holly

    26:50 – Yew

  30:45 – Planting evergreens

  36:02 – Christmas trees as fire hazards

  38:26 – Christmas trees after the holidays

  41:46 – Scientific names

  43:27 – Wrap-up, what’s up next week, and goodbye!

More information:

Is It Pine, Spruce, or Fir? - https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/anr-80

Contact us! 

Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.edu

Ken Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu

Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowing

Subscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribe

Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies.

Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk

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