A successful content calendar isn’t just about posting frequently—it’s about posting smart. One of the best strategies is to find the right balance between evergreen and trending content.
In this article, you’ll learn the difference between the two, why both matter, and how to combine them effectively for long-term content success.
What is Evergreen Content?
Evergreen content refers to content that stays relevant over time. It provides lasting value and continues to attract traffic weeks, months, or even years after publishing.
Examples:
“How to Set Up a Blog in 2025”
“Top Email Marketing Tips for Beginners”
“The Complete Guide to SEO Basics”
This content answers common questions and solves timeless problems.
What is Trending Content?
Trending content focuses on current topics, events, or viral trends. It has a short lifespan but can bring a spike in traffic and engagement.
Examples:
“Instagram's Latest Algorithm Update Explained”
“Best Black Friday Deals for Marketers”
“AI Tools Going Viral in 2025”
This content is time-sensitive and highly shareable when released quickly.
Why You Need Both
Evergreen content drives consistent traffic and builds authority.
Trending content keeps your brand fresh and relevant.
Balancing both helps you:
Build long-term SEO results
Stay part of current conversations
Attract both loyal readers and new audiences
Improve your brand’s visibility across platforms
How to Plan Evergreen Content
Research Timeless Topics
Look for topics your audience always needs. Use tools like Google Trends or AnswerThePublic to find recurring questions.Create In-Depth Guides
Write comprehensive articles that stay useful over time.Optimize for Search Engines
Use relevant keywords, internal links, and structure to boost SEO.Update When Necessary
Evergreen doesn’t mean “set it and forget it.” Keep it updated yearly to stay relevant.
How to Plan Trending Content
Follow Industry News
Subscribe to newsletters, follow influencers, and monitor trends in your niche.Act Quickly
When a trend starts gaining traction, be among the first to post about it.Add Your Own Twist
Don’t just repeat what everyone else says—share your perspective or expert insight.Use Multiple Platforms
Share trending content across social media, email, and blogs for maximum visibility.
Sample Calendar Strategy: 70/30 Rule
A proven approach is to follow the 70/30 rule:
70% Evergreen Content
Build a strong foundation with timeless topics.30% Trending Content
Keep your calendar fresh and reactive.
This strategy ensures your calendar delivers consistent value while staying flexible.
Tips to Blend Both in One Piece
Sometimes, a single piece of content can be both evergreen and trending.
Example:
Title: “AI Tools to Watch in 2025 (And How to Use Them Long-Term)”
Part of the article discusses trending AI tools.
Part of it focuses on how to use them long-term, adding evergreen value.
This hybrid approach gives you the best of both worlds.
Track Performance Separately
Use analytics to monitor both types:
Evergreen: Track SEO traffic and engagement over time.
Trending: Monitor immediate spikes in reach, shares, or conversions.
These insights help you plan better for future calendars.
Conclusion
Balancing evergreen and trending content is not just a nice idea—it’s a necessary strategy. Evergreen builds your authority and search visibility. Trending content keeps your brand relevant and dynamic.
By planning your calendar to include both, you ensure that your audience always finds something useful and timely—no matter when they visit.