Question
I would like to plant some evergreen shrubs next to my house, both on the north and south sides. My question is what kind should I get that stay low to the ground, spread nicely, look good year around, and will not hurt my house or foundation. Also sun tolerant on the south side of my house. I live in Durango, Colorado at about 6500 feet so low water need would be good also. Or is there another shrub I should consider? Please help.

Answer
Hello Bob


As I'm not experienced in gardening at altitude, I've done a bit of research and have come up with a website for you to investigate.  It's a bit complicated getting to where you need to be but worth the effort -

1.  Type 'www.ext.colostate.edu' in your search engine

2.  From the list presented click on 'Colorado state university cooperative extension'

3.  Scroll down the left side of the screen until you come to 'Search CSU' and left click

4.  Go to 'University Web Search Using Google' and type 'Shrubs for high altitude' into the search box

This takes you to a well written information page which lists plants that can be successfully grown at your altitude and above.

If you want to find out more about any particular plant just type its name into your search engine - you'll be amazed what you'll find - including suppliers!

Good luck

Gill