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Suggestions for hardy shrubs able to handle heavy snow load?

9 years ago

Hello,

I had planted a hedge of arborvitae three years ago, and this winter it got decimated by the heavy snow. So many broken branches that I'll have to pull them out. I'm looking to replace them with deciduous shrubs, hardy to zone 3a, that would be able to bounce back after heavy snow loads. I think hydrangea paniculatas would probably work, but what about lilacs? Any other shrubs I should be looking at?

Thanks!

Marie

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Comments (2)

NHBabs z4b-5a NH
9 years ago
Lilac sometimes gets damaged here, though recovers well. H. paniculata seems unfazed by ice and heavy snow.

Any caning shrub which will regrow quickly from the roots if damaged will work:

Mock orange (Philadelphus)

Spirea

Hydrangea arborescens such as Annabelle

Reg-twigged dogwood

Forsythia

I haven't had any issues with PJM Rhododendrons, though they are evergreen.
mazerolm_3a thanked NHBabs z4b-5a NH
mazerolm_3a
Original Author
9 years ago
last modified: 9 years ago
Thank you, NHBabs, I think I'll try a mix of your suggestions, instead of one kind.
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