Landscaping Tree Prices – Full Cost Guide for Evergreens

Thinking about adding some evergreens to your yard but unsure about the cost? You’re not alone. Landscaping tree prices can vary widely depending on the size, type, and whether you plant them yourself or hire a professional. A small spruce can cost you $50, while a mature pine can cost thousands. And that doesn’t include shipping, soil preparation, or ongoing maintenance. There are budget-friendly options if you know where to look and when to buy.

Complete Price List for Landscaping Evergreens

Evergreens bring year-round color and privacy to any yard, but landscaping tree prices can sometimes be surprising. Whether you’re eyeing a small juniper or a towering pine, prices vary widely depending on size, species, and where you buy. Let’s break down what you’ll actually pay, from nursery prices for starter plants to the cost of mature landscaping trees that make an instant impact.

Small and Affordable vs. Large and Fancy

If you’re on a budget, young evergreens offer the best value. You’ll find 3- to 4-foot-tall arborvitaes for $40 to $80 at most nurseries, while a similarly sized blue spruce typically costs $50 to $100. Shrubs like boxwood start even lower, at around $15 to $25 for a 1-gallon plant. But if you want immediate curb appeal, be prepared to pay higher prices for landscaping trees. A 10-foot eastern white pine can cost between $800 and $1,500, while larger specimens (like a 15-foot Colorado blue spruce) can easily reach $3,000 or more. The cost of planting mature shrubs follows the same trend, with a 5-foot boxwood often costing more than $150 per plant.

Why Prices Vary So Much

Several factors influence tree nursery prices, including:

• Growth time;
• Rarity;
• Regional demand.

Fast-growing species like Leyland cypress are less expensive than slower-growing varieties (like dwarf Alberta spruce). Drought-tolerant varieties often command premium prices for landscaping trees because of their low-maintenance appeal.

Wondering how much evergreen trees cost at different retailers? Big box stores may offer lower upfront costs, but local nurseries typically offer healthier stock and expert advice. For the best deals, check end-of-season sales—many growers discount plants by 30 to 50 percent to clear out stock.

Small Trees vs. Mature Specimens – Cost Comparison

When budgeting for evergreens, size matters. Those cute 3-foot trees at the nursery may seem affordable now, but how do they compare to mature trees? Let’s compare real landscaping tree prices for both options, because sometimes waiting isn’t the cheaper choice.

Slow and Steady Savings for Small Trees

Young evergreens are cheaper initially — a 4-foot white pine can cost $60–$120, while the same species at 8 feet tall jumps to $300–$600. Shrub costs follow this pattern, too: a 1-gallon juniper costs $12–$25, but a 3-gallon pot bumps that up to $40–$80. Over time, those savings add up, especially if you’re planting multiple trees for privacy.

But there’s a catch: time is money. That $60 pine won’t provide shade or screening for 5+ years. If you’re renting or planning to sell soon, smaller trees may not provide a fast enough return.

The Instant Impact (and Higher Price Tags) of Mature Trees

Want a finished look tomorrow? Be prepared for the cost of mature landscaping trees to hit your wallet hard. A 10-foot blue spruce averages $800–$2,500, with larger specimens (12+ feet) topping out at $5,000. Professional installation adds another 20–50% to nursery prices.

Why so steep? Nurseries spend more than a decade growing them—you’re paying for their time, space, and care. The jump is similar for shrubs: a 5-foot arborvitae costs $150–$400 versus $30 for a 1-footer. But if privacy or curb appeal is urgently needed, the cost of planting full-sized shrubs or trees may be worth it.

Try a mix of both strategies. Use a few mature trees as focal points, then fill in the gaps with inexpensive smaller trees.

How Much Does Professional Planting Add to the Cost?

You’ve picked out the perfect evergreens and know the prices of landscaping trees, but don’t forget about how to plant them. Professional planting may seem like an extra expense, but it saves you a lot of stress (and replacement costs) down the road. Let’s break down what you’re really paying for when you hire help.

The Cost of Getting the Job Done Right

Labor isn’t cheap, especially when it comes to heavy, mature landscaping trees. Here’s what’s typically included in the cost of professional planting:

• Digging and prep work ($50–$150 per tree) — This includes digging holes, measuring the root ball, and amending the soil.
• Actual planting ($75–$300 per tree) — Depends on size; a 6-footer costs less than a 12-foot giant.
• Staking and bracing ($25–$75 per tree) — Critical to stabilizing larger specimens.
• Cleanup and disposal ($40-$100) – removes packaging and excess soil.

For shrubs, professional shrub planting costs $25-$75 per shrub, depending on size. Many landscapers offer discounts for multiple plants.

When it makes sense to DIY (and when it doesn’t)

Small trees under 6 feet? You can do it yourself if you have the skills. But consider professional help for:

• Specimens over 8 feet (they’re heavier than they look).
• Rocky or compacted soil.
• High-value trees where proper planting is critical to survival.

Remember, those nursery prices don’t include the backbreaking labor of moving a 300-pound root ball. And if you kill a $500 tree by planting it incorrectly, is the labor savings really worth it?

How to save money? Many nurseries offer planting packages when you purchase from them – sometimes with 10-20% off individual trees for landscaping.

Budget-Friendly Evergreen Alternatives

Who says you have to spend a lot of money to have a lush, green landscape? While landscaping tree prices for premium specimens can be shocking, there are smarter options. They provide visual impact without breaking the bank.

Affordable Stars of the Evergreen World

Certain varieties consistently offer the best value in the nursery price category. These budget options still provide year-round color and structure:

• American Arborvitaes – Fast-growing, inexpensive ($30–$80 for 5–6-foot plants).
• Mountain Pine – Compact and drought-tolerant ($40–$100).
• Junipers – Tough as nails, prices start at $25.
• Yew shrubs – A classic look for just $15–$40 per plant.

Shrubs like boxwood can quickly add up in cost, but alternatives like ink holly offer the same formal appeal for half the price. For height without the cost of mature landscaping trees, consider fast-growing plants like Leyland cypress, which quickly fill vertical space.

Creative Workarounds for Big Impact

Smart shoppers know tricks to stretch their evergreen budget even further:

• Buy field-grown trees instead of container-grown (save 20-40%).
• Look for end-of-season sales at local nurseries.
• Start small with seedlings in cell packs ($5-$15 each) for long-term projects.
• Merge a few prettier specimens with affordable fillers.
• Propagate your own from cuttings (free plants, but with some patience).

Remember: How evergreen a tree is matters less than how well it fits your space. A $50 tree that thrives is better than a $500 specimen that struggles. The cost of properly planting shrubs and trees also affects long-term value—don’t skimp on soil preparation. Try contacting nearby park departments. They sometimes sell surplus native evergreens at prices well below retail for municipal landscaping trees.

When to Buy – Seasonal Price Fluctuations

Timing Your Purchase of Evergreens Can Save You Money. Landscape tree prices aren’t static. They fluctuate based on season, demand, and nursery inventory cycles. Knowing when to shop can mean the difference between a great deal and a busted budget.

Best Times to Get Deals

Nurseries operate on seasonal rhythms that directly impact nursery prices. Here’s when to find the best prices on shrubs and trees:

• Late Fall (October-November) — Nurseries clear out inventory before winter (20-40% off).
• Early Spring (March-April) — Overstock sales before new shipments arrive.
• Midsummer (July) — Slower season means better deals on remaining inventory.
• Holiday Weekends — Memorial Day/Labor Day deals often include plants.

The cost of mature landscape trees drops especially sharply in late fall when nurseries are reluctant to leave large specimens in for the winter. Just remember, you’ll need to plant quickly before the ground freezes.

When to Pay Full Price (If You Must)

Sometimes waiting isn’t an option. If you need evergreens during peak planting season (April-May or September), expect to pay top dollar. Shrub planting costs also increase during these busy periods when landscapers are fully booked.

Want to know how much evergreen trees cost in winter? Surprisingly, some growers offer January discounts on hardy varieties, though selection will be limited. Container-grown plants often cost more in winter because they are easier to handle than plants packed in balling or burlap.

Try to build relationships with local nurseries. Many offer loyalty discounts or call regular customers with specials before public sales.

Getting Quotes: What to Ask Your Landscaper

Getting accurate landscaping tree prices requires proper negotiation with professionals. Whether you’re comparing quotes or just getting initial estimates, knowing what questions to ask will prevent surprises when you receive your bill.

Questions for Your Quote

Don’t just ask “how much do evergreen trees cost?” — dive into these details:

• Does the estimate include shipping? (Adds $50-$300 depending on distance).
• Does the package include soil amendments? (Lime/fertilizer can add $20-$50 per tree).
• What’s the warranty policy? (Good nurseries offer a 1-year warranty).
• Are staking/stretching included? (Often listed as an additional $25-$75 per tree).
• How do you handle replacing plants if they die? (Some charge a restocking fee)

The cost of planting shrubs should be broken down separately from the cost of installing trees, as labor costs vary. Always check to see if cleanup is included — some crews leave burlap and wire mesh unless otherwise specified.

Red flags that could cost you more later

Watch for vague estimates that don’t break down the cost of mature trees for landscaping versus labor. Be wary of:

• “All-in” quotes with no breakdown.
• Contractors who don’t put a replacement policy in writing.
• Estimates that are significantly lower than competitors (likely trying to save money).
• No mention of post-planting care instructions.

Smart shoppers get at least three estimates to compare prices and services from tree nurseries. Remember — the cheapest option often ends up being more expensive if the plants don’t take root or the installation is sloppy.

Ask landscapers to specify the root ball size for any given shrub or tree cost. Smaller root systems mean a higher risk of failure, regardless of the apparent benefit.

If you haven’t decided yet which evergreen plants you want to use for landscaping, watch the video. In it, the author, Steph, shows seven evergreen plants that are easy to grow. She shares tips on caring for them and talks about her favorite varieties.

Investing in evergreens means balancing immediate costs with long-term value. While landscaping tree prices vary widely based on size, species, and time, understanding the full picture—from nursery prices to installation—will help you make your choice. Whether you choose budget seedlings or splurge on mature specimens, proper planning will ensure your landscape will thrive without breaking the bank.

Remember, the true cost of shrubs and trees extends beyond the initial purchase. Factor in maintenance, potential replacements, and professional care to get an accurate picture. With the right strategy and seasonal timing, you can create a stunning evergreen landscape that perfectly suits your vision and budget.