Arborvitae: The Perfect Tree for Privacy & Style

Trees are very important for the environment because they help support biodiversity. People are starting to understand how much trees contribute to a healthier environment. Many are exploring new ways to grow more plants, such as organic gardening and other eco-friendly methods.

Healthy, green trees make an area look beautiful and provide many environmental benefits. Gardeners should take proper steps to ensure plants in green spaces are strong and healthy enough to handle environmental challenges. Some effective methods include using the right fertilizers, watering regularly, and planting native tree species.

Arborvitae is a popular choice for gardeners thanks to its many benefits. One great feature is its ability to act as a natural privacy screen. These trees stay green all year, making gardens look lush and vibrant.

Additionally, gardeners can explore options at Growcycle to find ways to grow healthy trees. They can discover the best supplements for tree growth and get advice on caring for and maintaining their trees.

Botanical Features of Arborvitae

Arborvitae, also known as Thuja, is a genus of coniferous evergreen trees or shrubs in the cypress family (Cupressaceae). It is widely used in landscaping due to its attractive appearance and practical features. Below are the key botanical features of Arborvitae:

1. Foliage

• The leaves are scale-like and overlap tightly, giving a flattened, fan-shaped appearance.
• They remain green throughout the year, though some species may develop yellow or bronze tones in winter.
• The foliage has a characteristic aromatic scent when crushed.

2. Growth Habit

• Arborvitae trees typically have a pyramidal or columnar shape, though some varieties are more rounded or spreading.
• Depending on the species or cultivar, they range in height from 3 feet (dwarf varieties) to over 60 feet (larger species).

3. Bark

• The bark is thin, reddish-brown, and may peel in narrow strips.

4. Cones

• Arborvitae produces small, elongated cones that are 0.5 to 1 inch long.
• The cones are initially green and turn brown as they mature.

5. Root System

• The root system is shallow but widespread, making the tree less tolerant of drought.
• Proper mulching helps retain moisture and protect the roots.

Quick Facts About Arborvitae Trees

Here are some quick facts about Arborvitae trees:

Types of Arborvitae Tree

Arborvitae trees come in various species and cultivars, each with unique characteristics suitable for different purposes, such as privacy screens, hedges, or ornamental features. Here are the common types of Arborvitae trees:

1. Giant Arborvitae

Giant Arborvitae, or Thuja Green Giant, grows up to 70 feet and shows speedy growth. It is highly resistant to water stress, intense summer, frosting winter, and harmful insects and pests. The lush green and thick vegetation allows growers to plant it outside gardens, home lawns, and as cover to areas requiring privacy. 

2. Emerald Green Arborvitae

Emerald Green Arborvitae is an ideal option for creating privacy screens. They grow moderately and reach up to 14 feet in height. Its lush and deep green vegetation retains its hue in harsh conditions and even dormancy. It can conveniently grow in compact spaces and is a reliable noise buffer. Growers can consider it for their homes, ornamental landscapes, and in creating urban green spaces. 

3. Eastern Arborvitae

Eastern Arborvitae, or Thuja occidentalis, shows moderate growth but can reach up to 60 feet tall. The plant resists several stresses but cannot withstand highly humid conditions. Growers must prevent these plants and certain pests, including spider mites, from winter. Except for these limitations, it is easy to grow and requires fewer maintenance measures. Its vegetation retains a deep green hue throughout the year. 

4. Dwarf Arborvitae Tree

Unlike other types of Arborvitae, the Dwarf tree has a slower growth rate and can reach a height of up to 4 feet. The mature plants can resist water stress and are adaptable to higher or medium sunlight exposure. They possess varying hues of green that turn red during dormant periods. Growers can plant them for appealing borders, and their smaller size makes them ideal container plants. 

5. North Pole Arborvitae

North Pole Arborvitae or Art boe shows moderate growth and grows up to 15 feet tall. An evergreen shrub plant requires well-draining and nutrient-rich soil to thrive. The good thing about this Arborvitae tree is that it has no chance of diseases and pests.

Growers may consider it an ideal privacy screen due to its height and deep green vegetation, which retains the freshness of plants during winter dormancy. 

How to Plant Arborvitae Tree for a Thriving Garden

Planting Arborvitae trees requires a careful approach, as minor negligence during planting can reduce the tree growth. Here is a simple and effective way to plant the Arborvitae seeds:

Select a Suitable Location

Before planting Arborvitae trees, growers should carefully select the planting area. An ideal location should have complete to partial sunlight exposure. The garden or the planting area should have adequate room to allow the effective growth of Arborvitae seeds into a flourishing tree. Moreover, the region's climate should be suitable for supporting its development. 

Prepare the Soil

These plants prefer well-draining soil with a high nutrient content. The soil's pH should range from 6.0 to 8.0. Growers may opt for a premium soil mix with sufficient airflow. Also, before planting, it is crucial to clear the space of trash or residues and add organic fertilizer or compost to improve the soil’s nutritional content. 

Plant the Seed in the Pot

Arborvitae require effective care while planting and during the early growth stage. Growers can plant them in smaller pots first and then keep these pots indoors to protect them from harsh outdoor environments. Place the pots in maximum sunlight to promote healthy growth. After planting the seed, ensure gentle water splashes to initiate efficient sprouting.

4. Transplant the Root Ball in the Garden

Once the vegetation starts appearing, it is time to transplant the growing plants to a conventional garden. Gently extract the root Ball from the pot. To plant it in the garden, make a hole in the ground double the size of the root ball. Place the plant in this hole so that a small part of the root ball is outside the soil. Introduce the soil into the empty area and gently press it to hold the just-planted roots effectively. 

5. Water the Area Deeply

Once planted, Arborvitae needs adequate water to grow. Plants in their early stages of growth can not withstand water stress. Ensure sufficient water supply regularly until the tree matures. Continuous water is essential to allow efficient tree growth. For this, supply 1 to 2 inches of water a week. Growers may rely on drip irrigation systems for efficient water conservation. 

6. Apply Mulch Layer

Mulching serves as a beneficial layer that helps promote the growth of Arborvitae. Growers may prevent excess water runoff or minimize evaporation with this layer. Moreover, mulching helps keep the temperature suitable for Arborvitae growth.

Weeds and harmful insects find it hard to attack the plant in the presence of mulch layers. Apply a 3-inch thick layer of mulch at the growing plant’s base. However, mulching near the tree trunk should be avoided, as moisture buildup near the trunk may invite harmful pests. 

7. Monitor Consistently

Growers should watch the tree carefully as it grows. A reliable organic pesticide should be introduced immediately whenever signs of weeds and pests are observed. Leaf thinning or discoloration may be due to water stress or nutrient deficiency. The dead ends of the plant may also need pruning.

Which are Limiting Nutrients for Plant Growth?

Plant nutrients are vital for the health and productivity of crops, whether grown in traditional outdoor fields or modern indoor farming systems. These essential chemical elements and compounds, sourced from air, water, and soil, are necessary for the growth, reproduction, and metabolism of plants.

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Right Time to Plant Arborvitae

The best time to plant Arborvitae depends on the climate of the region, but generally, the ideal planting times are early spring or fall. Here's a breakdown of why these seasons are preferred:

1. Spring (Early Spring)

Timing: Plant Arborvitae after the last frost, typically in early to mid-spring.

Benefits:

The soil is warming up, which promotes root growth.

The tree has the entire growing season ahead to establish roots before winter.

This time gives the tree a good chance to settle in and grow during warmer months.

2. Fall (Early Fall)

Timing: Plant Arborvitae 4–6 weeks before the first frost, typically in early fall.

Benefits:

The soil is still warm enough to encourage root development.

Cooler temperatures reduce the stress on the tree while it’s establishing roots.

Fall planting allows Arborvitae to focus on root growth, which helps it better withstand the following summer’s heat.

Best Growing Conditions for Arborvitae

Arborvitae trees are relatively easy to grow and adapt well to various conditions but thrive best in specific environments. Here are the best-growing conditions for Arborvitae:

1. Temperature

Regulating the temperature is essential while growing Arborvitae trees, as frequent fluctuations may significantly affect plant growth and durability. Growers must consider the following things to maintain effective temperatures throughout the tree’s life:

• The ideal temperature for Arborvitae growth is 32-70 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it is cold-resistant and can bear temperatures up to -30 degrees Fahrenheit. 
• Young plants prefer calm conditions and can not bear heat stress. At temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit, plant growth may stop and die. 
• Mature Arborvitae are highly resistant to heat and cold. Thuja occidentalis can withstand -40 degrees Fahrenheit, while in summer, they can survive in temperatures lower than 90 degrees Fahrenheit. 
• Growers should introduce adequate frost protection while the trees enter dormant conditions. 
• Intense cold may suppress the growth of trees during spring, killing the trees. 
• The heat stress may weaken the vegetation growth in Arborvitae and cause wilting in the existing green cover. 

2. Water

The watering requirements of Arborvitae differ with the varying growth stages. Here are some key points growers should consider to ensure efficient watering practices throughout the tree’s life;

• First, growers can determine the current moisture level of the soil while planting the Arborvitae using a reliable hygrometer or by testing the soil. 
• Keep the soil consistently moist during early growth by applying 1-2 inches of water weekly. 
• Ensure consistent watering for vigorous root development for the first six months to a year. 
• Once the tree matures, it can withstand drought and water stress. Apply up to one inch of water to the mature trees once a week. 
• Before the intense winter, it is crucial to supply adequate water to allow the Arborvitae to survive during freezing temperatures.
• The soils with high clay content may retain moisture for a bit longer, so water them accordingly. 

3. Pruning

Pruning is essential for removing unnecessary and dead plant parts. Effective pruning results in lush green and healthy plants, encouraging optimal growth. Here are specific points growers should keep in mind while meeting the plants' pruning needs;

• Growers should preferably prune their plants before the spring starts or after the winter to remove stressed or dead plants. 
• During summer, Arborvitae needs less pruning; otherwise, plants may face considerable stress. 
• While the trees go dormant during winter, vegetation may get stressed, or some parts may wilt or die. After an intense cold season, growers need to prune the trees significantly. 
• Growers should avoid excess pruning of growing Arborvitae, as the plants mostly have healthy, lush green vegetation at this stage. 
• While pruning, go from top to bottom of the plants and only remove the dead and diseased parts. 
• Removing not more than one-third of the vegetation while pruning for effective tree growth is preferable. 

4. Fertilizers

For better Arborvitae performance, growers should follow the below fertilizing tips;

• Before fertilizer application, check for the soil’s nutrient profile and apply only the required nutrients.
• Spring is the ideal time to fertilize these trees during growth—roots efficiently uptake nutrients. 
• Avoid fertilizer application until the second round of leaves appear. Before this, the tree may rely on the nutrients contained inside the seeds. 
• Trees prefer fertilizers containing all the macronutrients in a balanced ratio. These formulations equally support roots and vegetation growth while developing resilience.
• Avoid over-application of fertilizer, and consult the packaging to determine the suitable amounts.
• Do not feed the soil when the trees enter the dormancy period; during these times, the roots' nutrient absorption potential is ineffective. 

Additional Tips to Maintain Healthy Arborvitae Tree

Here are some of the additional things growers should consider to ensure better maintenance of Arborvitae plants;

• Space the seeds at least 5 to 6 feet apart for taller plants. For smaller hedges, spacing of 3 to 4 feet is also acceptable. Better spacing ensures better plant growth. 
• Freezing during winter can sometimes damage Arborvitae, particularly the young plants. To prevent winter damage, cover plants with high-quality burlap or frost-protecting fabric.
• Add adequate water and nutrients to prepare the plants for winter dormancy, allowing them to withstand water and nutrient stress efficiently. 
• Apply a layer of organic mulch to the plants. It can regulate soil temperature, hold enough moisture, and prevent erosion. 
• Ensure the soil where Arborvitae is planted is free from disease, pests, and harmful insects. 
• Mature Arborvitae can resist several stresses, but growers should ensure significant care and suitable growing environments early.
• Though highly resilient, these trees can not withstand water logging conditions. The boggy soils may cause significant damage to Arborvitae. 
• Several species of Arborvitae grow best in full sunlight, while some also prefer partial shade. Place them in areas with 6-8 hours of daily sunlight exposure. 

Benefits of Arborvitae Tree

Arborvitae trees offer many benefits, making them popular for landscaping and gardening. Here are some of the key advantages:

1. Privacy and Shelter

Arborvitae’s dense foliage makes it an excellent choice for creating natural privacy screens or hedges. They are often planted in rows to block views from neighbors or the street, offering a green alternative to fences. These trees act as wind barriers, reducing the impact of strong winds in outdoor spaces, gardens, or around buildings.

2. Aesthetic Appeal

Arborvitae trees are evergreen, meaning they retain their foliage year-round, providing consistent color and structure to the landscape even during winter. Various cultivars are available, and Arborvitae can be shaped into tall, narrow columns or rounded, bushy forms, making them versatile for different design styles.

3. Low Maintenance

Once established, Arborvitae trees are relatively low-maintenance. They require occasional pruning and watering, but they are otherwise hardy and pest-resistant. Arborvitae are generally resistant to many common pests and diseases, although they may occasionally be affected by bagworms or spider mites.

4. Environmental Benefits

Like all trees, Arborvitae help improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. They also help trap dust and pollutants from the air. Arborvitae's deep roots help prevent soil erosion, particularly in areas prone to heavy rain or wind. 

They stabilize the soil and protect against runoff. Arborvitae's dense foliage provides shelter for birds and small animals, contributing to biodiversity in gardens and natural landscapes.

5. Noise Reduction

Arborvitae’s thick foliage can help reduce noise pollution by acting as a sound barrier. This makes them useful in urban areas or along highways to create a quieter environment.

FAQs

Can you control the height of the arborvitae?

Arborvitae trees grow taller than most of the tree species. However, growers can control their length by frequently pruning the growing vegetation. 

Will arborvitae turn green again?

The recovery of arborvitae depends on the issue that makes it turn brown. Plants can recover in case of temporary damage, including drought or harsh winter. However, plants severely infected by harmful pest diseases cannot revert to green. 

Does arborvitae lose their leaves?

The natural shedding of leaves is common in Arborvitae trees. During fall, their leaves turn brown and fall off. New leaves grow on the trees, reflecting healthier and lusher foliage. 

The Bottom Line

Arborvitae is a good choice for both new and experienced gardeners to plant in their gardens and other green areas. Its strong and flexible nature makes it easy to grow. However, these trees are very vulnerable to certain diseases. Some types can resist pests, but watching for and removing harmful pests from the Arborvitae trees is still important.

At Growcycle, gardeners can find natural and organic methods to manage pests, which helps to keep the trees healthy and the garden thriving. If there is a serious pest problem, synthetic herbicides can be used to kill the pests.

Disclaimer: This material is for informational purposes only and should not be relied on for legal, medical, financial, or any other form of professional advice.

Sources:

1. Gardendesign - Arborvitae Trees - Types & Care

2. Wikipedia - Thuja occidentalis

About the Author

Victor Miller

Environmental Journalist Focused on Sustainable Agriculture

Victor Miller is an environmental journalist at Growcycle, where he covers the latest news, trends, and innovations in sustainable agriculture. He has a deep passion for storytelling that emphasizes ecological balance and responsible farming practices.

Before joining Growcycle, Victor worked for several agricultural and environmental publications, reporting on significant environmental issues and interviewing key figures in the sustainability sector. His work has been featured in various industry journals and online platforms.