North Pole® Arborvitae can grow 10 to 15 feet tall.
Photo by: Proven Winners.

If you’re looking for fast-growing, easy-care evergreen trees to use as a privacy screen or hedge, arborvitaes are hard to beat. Plant several of them in a row, and in just a year or two the lush, dense foliage will fill in to create the ideal living fence. But don’t overlook the many other ways you can use arborvitaes in both formal and informal garden designs. These versatile conifers are suitable for almost any purpose.

On this page: Basics | Types | Planting | Care | Pruning | Design Ideas | Arborvitae Varieties

ARBORVITAE BASICS

Zones:

Varieties ranging from Zones 2 to 8

Mature height/spread:

The mature size of an arborvitae depends on the species and cultivar. Some low-growing shrubs are under 3 feet tall. Large trees can exceed heights of 70 feet and widths of 25 feet.

Shapes:

Mounded, conical, pyramidal, rounded, or pendulous, depending on the cultivar.

Foliage:

Most arborvitaes have flattened, lacy aromatic needles, ranging from emerald green to gold. Clusters of rosebud-shaped cones measuring about ½ inch long appear in early summer, turning from green to nutmeg-brown.

Growth rate:

Growth rate varies depending on the species and cultivar. Some are very fast growers adding 3 to 4 feet per year, while others, such as dwarfs and miniatures, grow much slower.

TYPES OF ARBORVITAE

Arborvitae (Thuja) is a genus of five species, but these two North American natives are the most common:

  • American arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis, also called eastern arborvitae): A mainstay of residential gardens because it’s widely available and has loads of cultivars to choose from. Prefers moist but well-drained soil and is very tolerant of cold climates. The foliage tends to darken to bronze in the winter, but some cultivars remain green all year.
  • Giant arborvitae (Thuja plicata, also called western red cedar): Native to the Pacific Northwest, this fast-growing thuja can reach heights of 70 feet or more, although smaller cultivars are available if you prefer a shrub-sized plant. It grows best in coastal climates (Zones 5-7) with cool summers and mild, wet winters but is adaptable to most soil conditions. It has a uniformly conical shape, spreading up to 20 feet at the base. The foliage has the added advantage of remaining green all year.
  • Other plants are commonly called arborvitae as well, they include: Chamaecyparis, Thujopsis, and Platycladus.

HOW TO PLANT ARBORVITAE

Planting for Privacy or To Block the Wind

Learn more about North Pole® Arborvitae

When to plant:

You can plant an arborvitae at any time of year, but fall is typically the best season because the cooler temperatures prevent heat stress and the moisture from fall rains helps to establish a strong, healthy root system. (See What to Plant in Your Fall Garden)

Where to plant:

  • Plant your arborvitae in a spot that receives at least 6 hours of full sun daily. Although some varieties can tolerate partial shade, growth will become sparse if they don’t receive enough light.
  • Arborvitaes grow in most soil types, but they don’t like soggy feet. Plant only in well-drained soil, or add amendments to improve drainage if your soil contains a lot of sand or clay. (See Garden Soil 101.)
  • Plant arborvitaes where they can spread their roots and have room to grow to their mature size.

Plant spacing:

When planting a hedge or screen, leave at least 3 to 4 feet between plants. Staggering arborvitaes in a zig-zag pattern instead of cramming them into a tight row will look more natural and give them more space.

How to plant:

  • When purchasing a potted or burlap-wrapped arborvitae at a nursery, plan on planting it in your garden within a few days after bringing it home so the roots don’t dry out.
  • Dig a planting hole that is an inch less deep than the plant's root ball but two to three times as wide so the roots have room to expand.
  • Place your arborvitae in the hole, making sure that the top of the root ball is higher than the surface of the soil so the roots don’t suffocate. Gently fill the hole with excavated soil, and water thoroughly to settle the soil. Do not pack the soil or tamp with feet.
  • After planting, water the roots thoroughly by letting a hose drip at the plant base or use a soaker hose. Repeat these deep soakings at least twice a week (if you don't receive rain) until the roots become established.

Planting in containers:

Smaller cultivars of arborvitae can be used as attractive container plants or topiaries that will provide season-long interest. Dwarf forms, in particular, are tolerant of some root restriction and can thrive outdoors in pots for years.

  • Choose a suitable pot size (one a few inches larger than the size of the root ball) to give the roots ample growing room. Your pot can be made of clay, ceramic, concrete, fiberglass, treated wood, or sturdy plastic. In colder climates, use a material that is freeze-thaw resistant. Good drainage is a must.
  • Partially fill the pot with a high-quality potting mix, preferably one specifically formulated for evergreens. Don’t use garden soil, which is too heavy and compact and will inhibit drainage.
  • Place the root ball on top of the soil in the middle of the pot, and then add more soil until it reaches the top of the root ball. After planting, water the soil thoroughly and then lightly tap the surface to remove any air pockets.
  • To help retain moisture, spread a layer of mulch or compost over the top of the container around the root ball.

ARBORVITAE CARE

Mulching around the base of your arborvitaes will help retain moisture in the soil. Photo by: Ozgur Coskun / Shutterstock.

Fertilization:

When planted in good soil and given enough water and sunlight, an arborvitae rarely needs fertilizer. However, if new growth becomes sparse or your soil is less than ideal, you may need to give your plant a nutritional boost. (See these recommendations for fertilizing evergreens from the University of Minnesota Extension.)

For arborvitaes in containers, fertilize regularly to replace nutrients that leach out of the soil. Use a slow-release granular fertilizer to avoid root burn, and water well before and after each application.

Watering:

Give newly planted shrubs about an inch of water a week during the growing season. Keep the soil evenly moist but not saturated. Decrease the frequency of watering as the roots become established. Use a hose to deliver water directly to the root zone.

Potted arborvitaes should be watered regularly, even during the winter months. Because evergreens don't go completely dormant in winter, they will still need moisture.

Arborvitaes can suffer stress from both underwatering and overwatering. If your plant isn’t getting enough water, the foliage will start to yellow or brown and the needles may drop. (In fall, some browning and needle drop is normal.) Overwatering may also cause needle discoloration and could lead to irreversible damage caused by root rot and fungal infection.

Winter care:

Heavy snow and ice buildup can bend and break the branches of taller arborvitaes. Use a broom to gently brush off heavy, wet snow before it has a chance to accumulate.

Some types of arborvitae, especially those that put out two or more leaders, may need to be staked to keep them upright. Storm-damaged arborvitaes can often be rejuvenated by pulling the drooping branches upright with ties and pruning off broken limbs. See these winter care tips from the University of Illinois Extension.

Diseases and pests:

One reason why arborvitaes are so popular is because they are rarely troubled by insect and disease problems. However, they may succumb to needle and twig blight caused by fungal attack, especially if air circulation is inhibited by crowding plants too closely together. To control blight, prune off all affected branches and treat with a fungicide.

Also watch out for bagworms, which like to feed on the foliage of arborvitaes and other evergreens. Spider mites and stem canker can also be problems.

Are arborvitae deer resistant?

The soft needles of American arborvitae are a delicacy for foraging deer— and unfortunately, won’t grow back. If deer are a problem in your garden, try giant arborvitae like Spring Grove® or a juniper. (See more deer-resistant plants.)

ARBORVITAE PRUNING

Arborvitaes are often pruned into spiral topiaries. Photo by: yarinkamoozova / Shutterstock.

Arborvitaes will retain their natural shape as they mature, and regular pruning usually isn't necessary. They will tolerate more frequent and heavier pruning if shaped into formal hedges and topiaries. Follow these tips for best results:

  • Give arborvitaes a light pruning in early spring to keep them tidy and encourage thicker growth.
  • New growth only develops from the leafy part of a branch, don’t cut back to bare wood.
  • Maintain the natural shape of your arborvitae—wider at the bottom than the top. If you prune it into a V shape, the lower branches will be shaded and the foliage may die back or become sparse.
  • Remove dead or diseased branches at the point where they leave the trunk. This will prevent decay and allow new growth to fill in the gaps.
  • Remove accumulated dead foliage inside the plant annually or more frequently to improve air circulation and reduce chance of disease.
  • Use selective pruning or thinning cuts to lower the height—don’t lop off the top of an arborvitae. No new growth will occur once the branch tips have been cut, and you’ll end up with a permanent buzz cut.

Here are some additional tips from The Morton Arboretum on the best methods for pruning arborvitaes and other evergreens.

USING ARBORVITAE IN THE GARDEN

Here are some design ideas for incorporating arborvitaes into your garden:

  • Add instant sophistication to an entryway by placing a matching pair of arborvitaes on either side of your front door.
  • Create evergreen focal points in the garden by intermixing arborvitaes with your perennials.
  • Use larger arborvitaes as statuesque specimen trees, or plant smaller cultivars in decorative pots and sculpt them into eye-catching topiaries.

ARBORVITAE VARIETIES

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Photo by: Proven Winners.

North Pole®Buy now from Proven Winners
Thuja occidentalis

The narrow shape of this evergreen makes it a real space saver—plus it doesn’t require pruning. Featuring dark green foliage in winter, this selection is also resistant to winter burn.

Zones: 3-7

Height/Spread: 10-15 feet tall, 3-5 feet wide

Suggested uses: Hedge, screen or striking specimen.

Photo by: Proven Winners.

Sting®Buy now from Proven Winners
Thuja occidentalis

Make a bold statement in your garden with 'Sting' arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis). This tall, columnar evergreen stands out with its slender, sword-like silhouette is perfect for narrow spaces.

Zones: 3-8

Height/Spread: 15-20 feet tall, 1-1.5 feet wide

Suggested uses: Architectural accent, mixed borders.

Photo by: Proven Winners.

Anna's Magic Ball®Buy now from Proven Winners
T. occidentalis

This tiny evergreen doesn't need any pruning to keep its tight, rounded shape. Add a splash of yellow to small gardens, containers, or perennial beds.

Zones: 3-7

Height/Spread: 15 inches tall & wide

Suggested uses: Edging shrub, containers, rock gardens.

Photo by: Proven Winners.

Fluffy®Buy now from Proven Winners
T. plicata

A unique evergreen with cheerful yellow, soft foliage. It's natural pyramid shape doesn't require pruning and adds structure to the garden. Considered more deer resistant than Thuja occidenalis specimens.

Zones: 5-8

Height/Spread: 5-10 feet tall, 3-5 feet wide

Suggested uses: Screening, mass planting, focal point, large containers.

Photo by: Proven Winners.

Tater Tot®Buy now from Proven Winners
T. occidentalis

The neat, rounded habit and evergreen foliage add year-round structure and formality to landscapes and containers.

Zones: 3-7

Height/Spread: 12 to 24 inches tall and wide

Suggested uses: Containers, borders, add structure.

Photo by: Proven Winners.

Cheer Drops™Buy now from Proven Winners
Thuja hybrid

This cultivar retains its attractive teardrop shape naturally with green foliage year-round, bringing structure and interest to winter gardens.

Zones: 3-7

Height/Spread: 10 to 18 feet tall and wide

Suggested uses: Hedges, screening, specimen plant, or large containers.

Photo by: Tim Ludwig / Millette Photomedia.

'Emerald Green'
T. occidentalis ‘Smaragd’

German for “emerald,” ‘Smaragd’ has glossy bright-green foliage that maintains its color in all seasons. Reaching an ultimate height of 10 to 15 feet and spread of 3 to 4 feet, it stays narrow and compact with minimal pruning. Hardy and cold tolerant (down to zone 2).

Zones: 2-7

Height/Spread: 12-14 feet tall, 3-4 feet wide

Suggested uses: Privacy screen, formal hedge, or topiary.

Photo by: Garden World Images Ltd / Alamy Stock Photo.

‘Golden Globe’
T. occidenalis

This bright little orb of gold is a great choice for providing winter interest and mixing with other shrubs to add contrast. It maintains a natural rounded shape, growing up to 3-4 feet tall and wide at maturity.

Zones: 2-8

Height/Spread: 2-3 feet tall & wide

Suggested uses: Short hedge, foundation plant, or edging shrub along a walkway.

Photo by: Paul S Drobot / Millette Photomedia.

‘Hetz Midget’
T. occidentalis

Shaped like a pin cushion, this charming dwarf variety has small sprays of lacy blue-green foliage that turn bronze over winter. Extremely slow-growing and hardy, it remains a midget-sized 3 to 4 feet.

Zones: 2-7

Height/Spread: 3-4 feet tall & wide

Suggested uses: Rock gardens, container plant, or foundation shrub.

Photo by: Garden World Images Ltd / Alamy Stock Photo.

‘Degroot's Spire’
T. occidentalis

A slow-growing cultivar with a very slender, upright habit, reaching a height of about 20 feet but width of only 4 to 5 feet. The mossy-green foliage bronzes slightly in winter. Although densely branched, the narrow form may make it susceptible to breakage from ice and snow accumulation. Staking after planting will help to prevent damage.

Zones: 2-7

Height/Spread: 20 feet tall, 4-5 feet wide

Suggested uses: Formal hedge, topiary, or accent plant by an entryway.

Photo by: Tim Ludwig / Millette Photomedia.

‘Green Giant’
Thuja 'Green Giant'

This pyramid-shaped arborvitae is one of the fastest growing, adding 3 feet or more each year before reaching a mature height of 50 to 60 feet. Sturdy and adaptable, it grows in sandy loam or clay soils and resists the weight of heavy ice and snow. The foliage remains a glossy dark green in all seasons.

Zones: 5-8

Height/Spread: 30-40 feet tall, 15-20 feet wide

Suggested uses: Tall hedge, specimen tree, or natural windbreak

Photo by: Imladris / Shutterstock.

‘Zebrina'
T. plicata

This stunning arborvitae is aptly named for its two-toned foliage with golden yellow accents. It has a narrow pyramidal shape, reaching a height of 30 feet or more and a width of 8 to 12 feet at the base. Like ‘Green Giant’, it has a fast growth rate, averaging about a foot per year.

Zones: 5-7

Height/Spread:

Suggested uses: Vertical landscape accent, tall hedge, or privacy screen.

RELATED:
Best Evergreen Trees for Residential Gardens
15 Best Shrubs for Privacy
Conifer Guide
Trees for Privacy
Evergreen Shrubs

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