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Evergreen potted shrubbery / trees

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smackababy

Lifer
H&G,

Any advice on some potted shrubs or small trees that will last the Chicago winters? We want some color on the deck and would rather not have to deal with covering or moving potted plants during the times of frozen tundra that vexes me so.

I was going to also say I would like not to spend $1000 a shrub, but I have no idea what the average cost of something like this is. The cheapest ones might just be that expensive for all I know.


Thanks
 
There are very few, if any, potted plants that will survive Chicago winters.
First off, you need to find the most rugged plant that is hardy to Zone ~4.
Chicago is Zone 5B or 6A, but that is for plants planted in the ground.
Potted plants are above ground so their roots get much colder, by at least a zone.

Your best bet is a pine and plant it in a large container so it has plenty of soil to help insulate the roots. Then you need to keep it out of the wind in the winter. It's best to move them against the house so they get a slight amount of residual heat.
You also want to keep the soil/roots moist through the winter. It will freeze, but that is ok. Roots have sugars that prevent complete freezing unless temps are lower than 20°F for days on end.

I grow bonsai trees, which is essentially what you are wanting to do. (Tree in a pot)
I have a lot of experience "over-wintering" trees.
 
Mostly in Sun or Shade?

Arborvitae 'Globe' is really cold hardy, cheap and tolerant of both sun and shade.
 
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Sunny during about half the day. Deck is on the north side of the house, and blocked by the east. So, shady in the morning, but sun from around noon onward.

I suppose completely maintenance free is unrealistic. I wouldn't mind covering them with some tarp / plastic during the winters. I just want to avoid having to take them indoors. I have neither the space nor the willpower to lug some small trees inside.
 
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