Hello,

When choosing plants for a landscape, there are several things that have to be considered.  These include: site adaptability which includes soil type, exposure to wind and rain, light levels—sun or shade, cold hardiness of plants; function and purpose—what is the reason for the plants—windbreak, privacy or aesthetic qualities and maintenance needs. It’s hard to know about the site because you have not mentioned what type of trees were removed and why.  

Before planting, you should have the soil analyzed.  To obtain a soil test kit, go to: https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/soil_test_kit_self-mailer

You have only mentioned conifers that you wish to plant. 

Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii), requires full sun, neutral to slightly acidic, moist well-drained soil.  It grows 40-80 feet at a medium rate (about 13 -24 inches a year). It does not do well in windy sites. It is a beautiful tree with good landscape value.

Jack pine (Pinus banksiana), grows 50’ at a medium rate in full sun.  It is tolerant of poor, dry sandy and acidic soil. It is not particularly ornamental.

Red pine (Pinus resinosa), requires full sun, acid, sandy and gravelly soil, grows 50-80 feet at a medium rate. It does not tolerate high winds.

White pine (Pinus strobus), prefers fertile moist well-drained slightly acidic soil in the sun; grows 50-80 feet at a fast rate (25 inches or greater), it is subject to chlorosis in high pH (alkaline) soils and does not like windy sites. It is a beautiful tree and the state tree of Michigan.

Norway spruce (Picea abies), prefers moderate moist, sandy acidic, well-drained soils in sun, grows 40-60 feet at a medium rate and can be used as a windbreak.  It has pendulous branches.

Colorado blue spruce (Picea pungens), prefers rich moist soil in full sunlight; grows 30-60 feet at a slow-medium rate. It is used often in landscapes. 

All of these trees do well in Roscommon’s in Hardiness zones 4b-5a.

All of these trees are subject to attack by pests and diseases but in the last few years, the Colorado blue spruce has had many problems and I’m attaching an article for you to consider when choosing a tree. 

https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/what_is_spruce_decline_and_what_should_you_do_about_it

You could also go to the website of the International Society of Arboriculture  at www.treesaregood.com to help you properly plant the trees.

I suggest that you consult the internet to see how these trees look when they reach maturity.

I hope this helps you when you choose your tree.  

Thank you for contacting Ask an Expert.