blue evergreens - Ask Extension
Hello. I would likesome suggestions, please. I live in Anoka MN. Looking for a pair blue evergeens for the foundation planting :
Full sun
West side ...
Knowledgebase
blue evergreens #944580
Asked September 08, 2026, 6:11 PM EDT
Hello. I would likesome suggestions, please. I live in Anoka MN. Looking for a pair blue evergeens for the foundation planting :
Full sun
West side of house
pyrimid shape , 1 on each side of the front door, other existing plants that survived are:Colorguard Yucca.. Chicagoland Boxwood, Mr. Bowling Ball Arborvita, and Dwarf Mogo Pine, Globe Blue Spruce and a dark wine wigelia,.
less than 12 feet mature height
less than 6 feet mature wide
these are to replce the 2 blue point junipers I planted 2025 lost to winterburn
I do not want to wrap in burlap.
Thank yoy.
Anoka County Minnesota
Expert Response
In general, yews, arborvitae, and hemlocks are the most susceptible to winter injury and these, in particular, are recommended for the north or northeast side of a home or protected areas. However, other evergreens can potentially experience some winter injury. Pruning late in the season, and lack of adequate watering going into the winter season can contribute to stress and damage. Extreme winter conditions and lack of snow can also contribute to winter damage as well. https://extension.umn.edu/garden-and-home/yard-and-garden/lawns-and-landscapes-in-minnesota/protecting-trees-and-shrubs-in-winter
We have some great resources from the U of MN that can help you make some decisions based on your preferences and the site for planting.
https://extension.umn.edu/garden-and-home/yard-and-garden/lawns-and-landscapes-in-minnesota/trees-and-shrubs/choosing-evergreens-for-your-landscape#evergreens-for-zone-4-851912
If able, a visit to the Arboretum can also be helpful to view some different evergreens in person.
Another reference for perusing is to use the advanced search field in the Conifer society website. You can then select for your preferred size and shape to see a list of options to consider. https://conifersociety.org/conifers
There are some smaller cultivars of white fir, spruce or pine that may work. Other options for the shape/size and color you describe include hemlock, juniper and false cypress. You’ll need to consider the conditions at your location and weigh the available options with cold hardiness and your preferences.
We have some great resources from the U of MN that can help you make some decisions based on your preferences and the site for planting.
https://extension.umn.edu/garden-and-home/yard-and-garden/lawns-and-landscapes-in-minnesota/trees-and-shrubs/choosing-evergreens-for-your-landscape#evergreens-for-zone-4-851912
If able, a visit to the Arboretum can also be helpful to view some different evergreens in person.
Another reference for perusing is to use the advanced search field in the Conifer society website. You can then select for your preferred size and shape to see a list of options to consider. https://conifersociety.org/conifers
There are some smaller cultivars of white fir, spruce or pine that may work. Other options for the shape/size and color you describe include hemlock, juniper and false cypress. You’ll need to consider the conditions at your location and weigh the available options with cold hardiness and your preferences.
