How To Get Arborvitae To Grow Faster – Expert Strategies For A Lush

Many homeowners choose arborvitae for their elegant, columnar form and evergreen appeal, often desiring a quick privacy hedge or an attractive landscape accent. While these conifers are generally moderate growers, patience can sometimes wear thin when you’re waiting for that lush, dense screen.

If you’re wondering exactly how to get arborvitae to grow faster, you’re in the right place. Achieving rapid, healthy growth isn’t just about wishing; it involves understanding the plant’s needs and implementing strategic care tailored to its specific requirements.

This comprehensive guide from Garden Aider will walk you through expert-level techniques, from soil preparation to pruning, ensuring your arborvitae thrive and reach their full potential much sooner. Let’s transform your landscape with vibrant, fast-growing evergreens.

Understanding Arborvitae Growth Habits and Potential

Arborvitae, scientifically known as Thuja, are a diverse group of conifers prized for their dense foliage and adaptability. Their growth rate can vary significantly depending on the species, cultivar, and environmental conditions.

Most common varieties, like ‘Green Giant’ and ‘Emerald Green’ (also known as ‘Smaragd’), typically grow between 6 to 24 inches per year. While ‘Green Giant’ is known for its impressive vigor, even ‘Emerald Green’ can be encouraged to grow faster with the right approach.

Understanding their natural growth cycle and potential helps set realistic expectations and guides your efforts. Our goal is to optimize every factor to push them towards the higher end of their growth potential.

The Foundation: Optimal Soil and Planting for Rapid Growth

The journey to accelerating arborvitae growth begins long before the plant is in the ground. Proper soil preparation and planting techniques are absolutely critical for establishing a strong root system, which is the engine of all growth.

Soil Preparation: The Root of Success

Arborvitae prefer well-draining, loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0 to 7.0). Heavy clay soils that retain too much water can suffocate roots and lead to rot, severely stunting growth.

• Test Your Soil: Begin with a soil test. This inexpensive step reveals your soil’s pH and nutrient deficiencies, guiding your amendments.
• Improve Drainage: If you have heavy clay, amend the planting area generously with organic matter like compost, aged manure, or pine bark fines. This improves soil structure and aeration.
• Enhance Fertility: Incorporate a balanced, slow-release granular fertilizer into the soil during preparation. Look for an NPK ratio like 10-10-10 or 12-4-8.

A healthy soil environment allows roots to spread freely, access nutrients, and absorb water efficiently. This directly translates to more vigorous top growth.

Planting Techniques: Give Them a Strong Start

Correct planting minimizes transplant shock and encourages immediate root establishment. This initial phase is crucial for long-term vitality and speed of growth.

• Dig a Wide Hole: The planting hole should be two to three times wider than the root ball, but only as deep as the root ball itself. This gives roots ample space to expand horizontally.
• Plant at the Right Depth: Ensure the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the surrounding soil grade. Planting too deep is a common mistake that can lead to stem rot.
• Loosen Roots: Gently tease apart any circling roots on the root ball. This encourages them to grow outwards into the new soil rather than continuing to circle.
• Backfill Carefully: Use the amended soil to backfill the hole, gently tamping down to remove large air pockets. Avoid compacting the soil too much.
• Water Thoroughly: After planting, water deeply to settle the soil around the roots. This also helps eliminate any remaining air pockets.

Proper planting sets the stage for rapid development. Don’t rush this step; it’s an investment in your arborvitae’s future.

Fueling Growth: Watering and Fertilization Strategies

Once planted, consistent moisture and a steady supply of nutrients are the primary drivers for accelerated growth. Arborvitae are not drought-tolerant, especially when young or establishing.

Consistent Watering: The Lifeblood of Fast Growth

Adequate water is paramount for nutrient uptake and photosynthesis. Underwatering causes stress, while overwatering can lead to root rot. Balance is key.

• Deep and Infrequent: Water deeply to encourage roots to grow downwards, making the plant more resilient. Aim for the top 6-8 inches of soil to be consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
• Check Soil Moisture: Before watering, always check the soil moisture. Stick your finger 2-3 inches into the soil; if it feels dry, it’s time to water.
• Establishment Phase: For the first year or two after planting, consistent watering is critical. This might mean watering 2-3 times a week during dry periods, depending on your climate and soil.
• Consider Drip Irrigation: For hedges, a drip irrigation system or soaker hose delivers water slowly and directly to the root zone, minimizing waste and ensuring consistent moisture.

Never let young arborvitae completely dry out. Drought stress is a major inhibitor of fast growth.

Strategic Fertilization: Providing Essential Nutrients

Fertilizer provides the necessary building blocks for growth, but it must be applied correctly to be effective and avoid burning the plants.

• Choose the Right NPK: A balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) is good for general growth. For established plants, a slightly higher nitrogen formula (e.g., 12-4-8 or 20-5-10) can encourage foliage production.
• Slow-Release is Best: Opt for slow-release granular fertilizers. They provide a steady supply of nutrients over several months, preventing nutrient “shocks” and reducing the risk of over-fertilization.
• Application Timing: Fertilize in early spring as new growth begins, and potentially again in late spring or early summer. Avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall, as this can stimulate tender new growth that is vulnerable to winter damage.
• Application Method: Spread granular fertilizer evenly around the drip line of the plant (the edge of the foliage), avoiding direct contact with the trunk. Water thoroughly after application to help nutrients penetrate the soil.

Remember, more isn’t always better. Over-fertilization can harm your arborvitae, leading to root burn and even death. Always follow product instructions carefully.

Sunlight, Airflow, and Mulching for Accelerated Development

Beyond soil, water, and nutrients, environmental factors play a significant role in how quickly your arborvitae grow. Optimizing these conditions can dramatically boost their vigor.

Sunlight Exposure: The Power Source

Arborvitae are sun-loving plants. They perform best and grow fastest with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. While some varieties tolerate partial shade, their growth will be slower and less dense.

• Ideal Placement: When planning your landscape, choose a spot that receives ample morning and early afternoon sun.
• Impact of Shade: Plants in heavy shade may become leggy, sparse, and more susceptible to disease, compromising their growth rate and aesthetic appeal.

Ensure your chosen planting site provides the light conditions necessary for robust growth.

Good Airflow: Preventing Disease

While not directly contributing to growth speed, good air circulation is vital for plant health, which in turn supports vigorous growth. Stagnant air can encourage fungal diseases.

• Proper Spacing: Plant arborvitae with adequate spacing between them, as recommended for the specific cultivar. Overcrowding reduces airflow and light penetration.
• Avoid Dense Plantings: If planting a hedge, ensure you’re not placing them so close that they touch immediately, especially if you want them to grow faster into a dense screen later.

A healthy, disease-free plant dedicates more energy to growing, rather than fighting off infections.

Mulching: A Growth-Boosting Layer

A 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch is one of the easiest and most effective ways to support faster arborvitae growth.

• Moisture Retention: Mulch significantly reduces water evaporation from the soil, keeping it consistently moist and reducing your watering frequency.
• Temperature Regulation: It insulates the soil, keeping roots cooler in summer and warmer in winter, reducing stress.
• Weed Suppression: Mulch smothers weeds, which compete with your arborvitae for water and nutrients.
• Nutrient Contribution: As organic mulches (like shredded bark or wood chips) decompose, they slowly release beneficial nutrients into the soil, improving its structure and fertility over time.

Apply mulch around the base of the plant, extending out to the drip line, but keep it a few inches away from the trunk to prevent moisture buildup and potential rot.

Pruning for Vigor: Shaping Your Arborvitae for Faster Growth

It might seem counterintuitive, but strategic pruning can actually encourage denser, faster growth in arborvitae, particularly for hedges.

Encouraging Bushiness and Density

Light, regular pruning stimulates new growth, making the plant fuller and more robust. This is especially true for young plants.

• Tip Pruning: In late spring or early summer, lightly trim the tips of new growth. This encourages branching lower down on the plant, leading to a denser appearance.
• Avoid Hard Pruning: Arborvitae do not regenerate well from old wood. Never cut back into leafless stems, as these areas typically won’t re-sprout.
• Hedge Shaping: For hedges, prune to maintain a slightly narrower top than bottom, allowing sunlight to reach the lower branches and preventing them from thinning out.

Pruning should be done with sharp, clean tools to prevent tearing and disease transmission. Use bypass pruners for smaller branches and hedge shears for shaping larger areas.

Protecting Your Investment: Pest, Disease, and Environmental Stress Management

Healthy plants grow faster. Protecting your arborvitae from common threats ensures they can dedicate all their energy to growth, rather than recovery.

Common Pests and Diseases

While generally robust, arborvitae can fall victim to specific pests and diseases that can slow or even halt growth.

• Bagworms: These caterpillars create cone-shaped bags and defoliate plants. Inspect regularly and hand-pick bags or use appropriate insecticides if infestations are severe.
• Spider Mites: Tiny pests that cause stippling and browning, especially in hot, dry conditions. A strong spray of water can dislodge them, or use insecticidal soap.
• Arborvitae Leafminer: Causes browning of leaf tips. Prune affected branches and consider systemic insecticides if severe.
• Root Rot: Caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage. Prevention is key: ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering.
• Canker Diseases: Fungal infections causing sunken lesions and branch dieback. Prune out affected branches during dry weather, sterilizing tools between cuts.

Regular inspection of your plants allows for early detection and treatment, minimizing damage and growth setbacks.

Winter Protection and Environmental Stress

Harsh winters and environmental stressors can cause significant damage, requiring the plant to spend energy on recovery instead of growth.

• Winter Burn: Caused by desiccation from winter winds and sun. Water deeply in late fall before the ground freezes. Consider wrapping young plants with burlap or applying an anti-desiccant spray in exposed locations.
• Salt Damage: Avoid planting arborvitae too close to roads or sidewalks where de-icing salts are used. Salt spray and runoff can severely damage foliage and roots.
• Animal Browsing: Deer and rabbits love to browse arborvitae, especially in winter. Consider physical barriers (fencing) or repellents if browsing is a problem.

Proactive measures against these stressors will ensure your arborvitae remain healthy and focused on growing tall and wide.

Selecting the Right Cultivar to how to get arborvitae to grow faster

One of the most impactful decisions for achieving rapid growth is selecting the right arborvitae cultivar. Not all arborvitae are created equal when it comes to growth rate.

Vigorous Cultivars for Quick Results

If speed is your primary goal, focus on these well-known, fast-growing varieties:

• ‘Green Giant’ (Thuja standishii x plicata): This hybrid is the undisputed champion for fast growth, often adding 2-3 feet per year. It’s incredibly robust, disease-resistant, and forms a dense, pyramidal screen.
• ‘Spring Grove’ (Thuja plicata ‘Spring Grove’): Another excellent choice, growing nearly as fast as ‘Green Giant’ with a similar form. It’s known for its resistance to deer and winter burn.
• ‘Steeplechase’ (Thuja plicata ‘Steeplechase’): Offers a more upright, narrower form than ‘Green Giant’ but still boasts a vigorous growth rate.

While ‘Emerald Green’ (Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’) is very popular for its classic, tight columnar shape, it is a much slower grower (6-9 inches per year) compared to the ‘Green Giant’ family. If you want to know how to get arborvitae to grow faster, choosing a cultivar known for its rapid growth is your first and best step.

Expert Tips for Maximizing Arborvitae Growth

Beyond the foundational care, a few “pro” tips can further enhance your arborvitae’s growth potential.

• Regular Observation: Spend a few minutes each week observing your plants. Look for signs of stress, pests, or disease. Early detection is crucial for quick intervention.
• Consistent Care Schedule: Create a seasonal care schedule for watering, fertilizing, and pruning. Consistency prevents neglect and keeps your plants in optimal condition.
• Aeration Around Roots: If soil compaction is an issue, consider gently aerating the soil around the drip line with a garden fork. Be careful not to damage roots. This improves oxygen flow and water penetration.
• Consider Mycorrhizal Fungi: When planting, you can inoculate the root ball with mycorrhizal fungi. These beneficial fungi form a symbiotic relationship with plant roots, enhancing their ability to absorb water and nutrients.
• Avoid Chemical Overuse: While pesticides and fungicides have their place, avoid routine, preventative spraying unless there’s a known, persistent problem. Healthy plants are often resistant to minor issues.

By consistently applying these combined strategies, you’ll unlock the secret of how to get arborvitae to grow faster and achieve that desired dense, green screen much sooner.

Frequently Asked Questions About Arborvitae Growth

How long does it take for arborvitae to grow into a privacy fence?

The time varies significantly based on the cultivar and initial size. ‘Green Giant’ arborvitae, planted at 4-5 feet tall, can form a dense privacy screen in 3-5 years, growing 2-3 feet annually. Slower varieties like ‘Emerald Green’ may take 7-10 years or more for the same result.

Can I use Epsom salts to make my arborvitae grow faster?

Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) provide magnesium, an essential micronutrient. While magnesium deficiency can hinder growth, most soils contain sufficient amounts. A soil test is recommended before applying Epsom salts, as unnecessary application won’t accelerate growth and could potentially create nutrient imbalances. A balanced fertilizer is generally more effective.

Why are my arborvitae not growing, even after a year?

Several factors can cause stunted growth:

• Poor Planting: Too deep, roots circling, or air pockets.
• Inadequate Watering: Either too little or too much water.
• Nutrient Deficiency: Lack of proper fertilization or poor soil.
• Insufficient Sunlight: Too much shade.
• Pest or Disease: Undetected infestations or infections.
• Transplant Shock: Can take a full season for plants to recover and start new growth.

Is it possible to revive a browning arborvitae and encourage new growth?

It depends on the extent and cause of browning. If only outer foliage is affected, identify and address the underlying issue (e.g., watering, pests, nutrient deficiency). Prune dead branches back to healthy wood. If the plant is entirely brown or the browning extends to the main trunk, it’s likely beyond saving, as arborvitae don’t typically regrow from old, dead wood.

What is the best fertilizer NPK ratio for arborvitae?

For general health and growth, a balanced NPK ratio like 10-10-10 or 12-4-8 is suitable. If your soil test indicates a nitrogen deficiency, a fertilizer slightly higher in nitrogen (e.g., 20-5-10) can encourage more foliage growth. Always use a slow-release granular product for consistent nutrient delivery.

Conclusion

Achieving rapid, robust growth in your arborvitae is entirely within your reach with the right knowledge and consistent effort. From the moment you select your cultivar and prepare the soil, to the ongoing regimen of watering, fertilizing, and thoughtful pruning, every step contributes to a faster-growing, healthier plant.

Remember that a healthy plant is a fast-growing plant. By prioritizing optimal conditions – plenty of sunlight, well-draining soil, consistent moisture, and protection from pests and environmental stresses – you empower your arborvitae to thrive.

Embrace these expert strategies, and you’ll soon enjoy a lush, dense privacy screen or stunning landscape feature that grows faster than you thought possible. Happy gardening!

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Taylor Galla

Founder and Author at Gardenaider

Taylor Galla is an American website author, product spokesman, mechanical engineer, automotive enthusiast, and automotive modifier.

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