Evergreen Wonders: Exploring Powell Gardens’ Conifer Collection and Garden

Tucked near Powell Gardens’ Visitor Center lies a unique space—the Conifer Garden, a certified reference garden for the American Conifer Society. A stroll through this evergreen gem reveals a diverse array of needle-bearing trees and shrubs. From towering pines to compact dwarf varieties, conifers bring year-round beauty to the Gardens and serve as essential habitats for wildlife. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast or simply someone who enjoys nature’s wonders, there’s plenty to discover about these ancient and resilient plants. 

What Are Conifers? 

Conifers belong to the plant family Pinophyta, a group of gymnosperms known for their needle- or scale-like foliage and cone-bearing reproductive structures. Unlike broadleaf trees that shed their leaves annually, most conifers retain their greenery year-round, making them a staple in winter landscapes. Common examples include pines (Pinus), spruces (Picea), firs (Abies), cedars (Cedrus), and junipers (Juniperus). Some species, such as the bald cypress (Taxodium distichum), break the evergreen rule and shed their foliage each fall. 

Conifers are highly adaptable and found in diverse environments, from arid deserts to alpine tundras. Their unique resinous sap helps deter pests and diseases, while their needles reduce water loss, making them well-suited for challenging growing conditions. 

Growing and Caring for Conifers 

Conifers can be a fantastic addition to home landscapes, offering structure, privacy, and seasonal interest. When planting conifers, timing is key—fall and early spring are ideal, allowing roots to establish before extreme temperatures set in. Select a well-drained site with full to partial sun, as most conifers prefer ample light to thrive. 

Once planted, young conifers require consistent watering, especially during their first few years. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Pruning is generally minimal but can be done to shape the tree or remove dead or diseased branches. Slow-release fertilizers can support healthy growth, though many conifers flourish without much intervention. 

The Mystery of Witches’ Brooms and Grafting Conifers 

One of the most intriguing phenomena in the world of conifers is the formation of “witches’ brooms”—dense, compact clusters of growth that appear on branches due to genetic mutations, diseases, or environmental stress. These odd growths are sometimes harvested and propagated through grafting to create unique dwarf conifer varieties, prized in ornamental gardening. 

Grafting is a horticultural technique where a desired conifer cutting (scion) is attached to a compatible rootstock. This method allows for the replication of rare and unusual forms, making it a crucial practice in conifer cultivation. Many of the compact and colorful conifers seen at Powell Gardens originated from grafted witches’ brooms. 

In 2023, the Powell Gardens team planted several new dwarf conifers. You can clearly see the grafts on several of these conifers. Look for a change in the bark, a lump in the trunk, or what looks like the stub of a branch that is actually the exposed top of the bottom plant.  

Some examples of grafts in the Conifer Garden:  

• Pinus banksiana Dangler Jack Pine ‘Dangler’  

• Abies concolor Archer’s Dwarf White Fir ‘Archer’s Dwarf’ (American Conifer Society’s conifer of the year in 2020) 

• Abies lasiocarpa var. arizonica Compact Blue Arizona Alpine Fir ‘Glauca Compacta’  

• Abies fraseri Wingles Blue Bonnet Fraser Fir ‘Wingle’s Blue Bonnet’ 

Cones: Nature’s Tiny Marvels 

While many people associate cones with traditional pinecones, these structures come in an incredible variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. Conifers produce both male and female cones, each playing a distinct role in reproduction. Male cones are typically small and release pollen, while female cones develop seeds. Some species, like the giant sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum), bear cones the size of a chicken egg, while others, such as the eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis), produce delicate, dime-sized cones. 

In spring, newly developing female cones can be surprisingly vibrant, displaying hues of hot pink, purple, and even blue before maturing into familiar brown seed carriers. These cones provide a critical food source for wildlife—squirrels, birds, and even some insects rely on their seeds for sustenance. Humans, too, have found ways to utilize cones; pine nuts, harvested from certain species, are a delicacy in many cuisines, while pinecone scales and resin have been used for crafts, medicine, and fire-starting for centuries. 

Visit the Conifer Garden at Powell Gardens 

Powell Gardens’ Conifer Garden showcases an extraordinary selection of these remarkable trees, offering visitors an up-close look at the diversity and beauty of conifers. Whether you’re admiring the striking textures of blue spruces, the whimsical forms of dwarf pines, or the seasonal color changes of newly emerged cones, there’s always something new to see. 

Next time you visit Powell Gardens, take a moment to explore this evergreen oasis. (Look for Conifer Tips, a special celebration of conifers, in the spring!) You may leave with a newfound appreciation for these ancient trees and even some inspiration for your own landscape. After all, conifers are more than just holiday trees—they’re living history, sculpted by time and nature.