Any evergreen that is well-suited to your site’s soils and growing zone can serve as a windbreak. Some of the most common evergreen trees used for windbreaks in the U.S. include pines, spruces, junipers, and cedars.
A note here on the term “evergreen:” Not every tree that looks evergreen maintains its foliage year-round. For example, bald cypress, larch and Dawn Redwood are popular conifers that lose their leaves in the winter. These would not be good as a wind break. Also, the mature form and size of a given species or cultivar should be considered when selecting a tree to provide wind protection. Your local university Extension Service or Conservation District can provide you with suggested windbreak species for your area.
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These Leyland Cypress provide great wind protection when planted in a dense row. Photo Credit: Raina Sheridan |
View additional information: Windbreaks for Energy Conservation, the article Benefits of Evergreen Conifers and Windbreak location and design.