MIA Native Flowering Evergreens - Ask Extension
I want to plant a tall 8'+ hedge of native flowering evergreens. I found out about Mountain Laurels (Kalmia latifolia) and loved them, but I cannot fi...
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MIA Native Flowering Evergreens #879840
Asked August 01, 2024, 11:17 PM EDT
I want to plant a tall 8'+ hedge of native flowering evergreens. I found out about Mountain Laurels (Kalmia latifolia) and loved them, but I cannot find them in stock anywhere. Could you point me to a nursery with Mountain Laurel or do you know if there is another native plant that meets my criteria? Thanks
Greene County Ohio
Expert Response
Hi Loretto! As for recommending nurseries, I do not know of nurseries in Greene County as I live in Franklin County. Just call around to your local nurseries or landscapers (thought late winter or early spring might be a better time to check as their stock might be higher.
Some info on Mountain Laurel: they are slow growing; they prefer morning sun and afternoon shade; they like moist, acidic soil (pH 5.0-5.5); the plant will not tolerate heavy clay soil or wet soil; this plant is toxic to humans & animals; also, it has a high flammability rating so it shouldn't be planted near your home; plant 4'-6' apart; avoid windy areas.
Rhododendrons are another possibility. Some are evergreen and some are deciduous (meaning they lose their leaves). They like dappled shade; moist, well-drained, acidic soil (pH 4.5-6.0); they will not tolerate heavy clay soil; they are also toxic to humans & animals.
You could also consider arborvitae, conifers, and pines.
Before planting, get a soil test
Soil Testing, Plant Sampling and Water Quality | Greene (osu.edu)
Happy planting!
Some info on Mountain Laurel: they are slow growing; they prefer morning sun and afternoon shade; they like moist, acidic soil (pH 5.0-5.5); the plant will not tolerate heavy clay soil or wet soil; this plant is toxic to humans & animals; also, it has a high flammability rating so it shouldn't be planted near your home; plant 4'-6' apart; avoid windy areas.
Rhododendrons are another possibility. Some are evergreen and some are deciduous (meaning they lose their leaves). They like dappled shade; moist, well-drained, acidic soil (pH 4.5-6.0); they will not tolerate heavy clay soil; they are also toxic to humans & animals.
You could also consider arborvitae, conifers, and pines.
Before planting, get a soil test
Soil Testing, Plant Sampling and Water Quality | Greene (osu.edu)
Happy planting!
