How To Grow Arborvitae – For A Lush, Year-Round Privacy Hedge

Dreaming of a lush, vibrant green screen that offers year-round privacy and curb appeal? Arborvitae, with its dense foliage and classic pyramidal or columnar shape, is a top choice for homeowners and landscapers alike. It’s a plant celebrated for its resilience and relatively low maintenance once established.

But like any living investment, getting it right from the start is key. You might be wondering about the best time to plant, how much water they truly need, or what to do if the leaves start turning brown. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of establishing and maintaining healthy, thriving arborvitae. We’ll cover everything from selecting the right cultivar to troubleshooting common issues, ensuring your green privacy dreams become a beautiful reality.

Understanding Your Arborvitae: A Foundation for Success

Before you even dig a hole, understanding the specific needs of arborvitae (Thuja species) is crucial. These evergreen conifers are popular for their fast growth, dense foliage, and adaptability, making them perfect for hedges, windbreaks, or standalone specimens.

Knowing their preferences will set you up for success. Different cultivars have varying growth habits, mature sizes, and environmental tolerances, so choose wisely for your specific landscape goal.

Popular Arborvitae Cultivars for Home Landscapes

Selecting the right variety is the first step in learning how to grow arborvitae successfully. Here are some favorites:

• ‘Green Giant’ Arborvitae (Thuja plicata ‘Green Giant’): This hybrid is a fast-growing, disease-resistant powerhouse. It can shoot up 3-5 feet per year, reaching 50-60 feet tall and 12-20 feet wide. Ideal for tall privacy screens.
• ‘Emerald Green’ Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’): A more compact choice, growing slowly to 10-15 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide. Its narrow, pyramidal form makes it excellent for tighter spaces or formal hedges.
• ‘Techny’ Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Techny’): Known for its hardiness and dark green foliage, ‘Techny’ grows 12-15 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide. It’s robust and performs well in colder climates.
• ‘Brandon’ Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Brandon’): Similar to ‘Emerald Green’ but often a bit taller and wider, reaching 15-20 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide. It maintains a dense, narrow habit.

Ideal Growing Conditions: Light, Soil, and Water

Arborvitae generally prefers specific conditions to truly thrive:

• Sunlight: They perform best in full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily). While they tolerate partial shade, too much shade can lead to sparse growth and a more open habit.
• Soil: Well-draining soil is non-negotiable. Arborvitae dislikes soggy feet, which can quickly lead to root rot. A loamy soil rich in organic matter is ideal.
• Soil pH: A slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0 to 7.0) is preferred. You can test your soil’s pH with a simple kit available at garden centers.
• Water: Consistent moisture is crucial, especially during the first year of establishment. Mature plants are more drought-tolerant but still benefit from regular watering during dry spells.

Mastering How to Grow Arborvitae: From Selection to Planting

Proper planting is the cornerstone of a healthy arborvitae. Taking the time to prepare the site and plant correctly will pay dividends in the long run, ensuring your plants establish quickly and grow vigorously.

Site Preparation: Getting the Ground Ready

A little upfront work makes a huge difference. Start by assessing your chosen site for sunlight and drainage.

• Soil Test: If you haven’t already, perform a soil test. This will tell you your soil’s pH and nutrient levels. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
• Weed Removal: Clear the planting area of all weeds, grasses, and debris. Weeds compete for water and nutrients, especially with young plants.
• Drainage Check: Dig a test hole about 12 inches deep and fill it with water. If it takes more than 4-6 hours to drain, you have poor drainage. Consider building a raised bed or incorporating significant amounts of coarse sand and organic matter to improve it.

Planting Your Arborvitae: Step-by-Step

This is where your vision truly begins to take shape. Follow these steps for successful planting:

1. Dig the Hole: Dig a hole that is two to three times wider than the root ball, but no deeper than the root ball itself. The top of the root ball should be level with or slightly above the surrounding soil surface.
2. Remove from Container: Carefully remove the arborvitae from its container. If the roots are circling tightly (root-bound), gently tease them apart or make a few vertical cuts down the sides of the root ball with a clean knife.
3. Position the Plant: Place the arborvitae in the center of the hole. Ensure the root flare (where the trunk widens at the base) is visible and at or slightly above soil grade. Planting too deep is a common mistake and can lead to root rot.
4. Backfill: Begin backfilling the hole with the amended soil, gently tamping it down to remove large air pockets. Avoid compacting the soil too much.
5. Water Thoroughly: Once the hole is half-filled, water generously to help settle the soil around the roots. Finish backfilling and water again until the soil is thoroughly moist.
6. Mulch: Apply a 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch (like wood chips or pine bark) around the base of the plant. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent moisture buildup and potential rot. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds.

Spacing for Hedges and Privacy Screens

Correct spacing is vital for the desired outcome, especially when planting a hedge. For a dense privacy screen, space ‘Green Giant’ arborvitae 5-8 feet apart, and ‘Emerald Green’ arborvitae 2-3 feet apart. For individual specimens, allow ample room for their mature width.

Ongoing Care for Thriving Arborvitae

Once planted, consistent care ensures your arborvitae grows strong and healthy. This includes proper watering, feeding, and protection from environmental stressors.

Watering Regimen: How Much and How Often

Watering is perhaps the most critical aspect of care, especially during the first year. Even established plants need attention during dry spells.

• Establishment Phase (First Year): Water deeply 2-3 times a week, or more frequently during hot, dry weather. The goal is to keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Check the soil moisture by sticking your finger 2-3 inches deep; if it feels dry, it’s time to water.
• Established Plants: Once established, arborvitae are more tolerant of drought. However, they still benefit from deep watering every 1-2 weeks during prolonged dry periods. Pay particular attention during late fall to ensure they go into winter well-hydrated.
• Technique: Water slowly at the base of the plant using a soaker hose or drip irrigation. This ensures water penetrates deeply into the root zone and minimizes evaporation. Avoid overhead watering, which can encourage fungal diseases.

Fertilization: Feeding Your Green Giants

Arborvitae are not heavy feeders, but a balanced fertilizer can promote vigorous growth. A soil test will give you the most accurate recommendation.

• Timing: Fertilize in early spring, just as new growth begins. Avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall, as this can stimulate tender new growth that is susceptible to winter damage.
• Type: Use a slow-release, balanced evergreen fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 or 12-4-8 NPK ratio). Follow the product instructions carefully, as over-fertilizing can burn roots.
• Application: Sprinkle the granular fertilizer evenly around the drip line of the plant, avoiding direct contact with the trunk. Water thoroughly after application to help the nutrients penetrate the soil.

Mulching for Health and Moisture

Maintaining a 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch around your arborvitae is one of the easiest ways to keep them healthy.

• Benefits: Mulch conserves soil moisture, suppresses weeds, moderates soil temperature, and slowly adds organic matter as it decomposes.
• Application: Extend the mulch layer out to the drip line of the plant. Remember to keep it a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot and rodent damage.

Pruning Arborvitae: Shaping for Health and Aesthetics

Pruning is essential for maintaining the shape, density, and health of your arborvitae. It encourages fuller growth and removes dead or damaged branches.

When and How to Prune

The timing and technique of pruning depend on your goals.

• Timing: The best time to prune arborvitae is in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Light shaping can be done in early summer after the first flush of growth. Avoid heavy pruning in late summer or fall, as new growth won’t have time to harden off before winter.
• Tools: Use sharp, clean bypass pruners for smaller branches and loppers for thicker ones. For hedges, electric or gas hedge trimmers can speed up the process, but hand pruners offer more precision.
• Shaping Hedges: For hedges, prune the sides slightly narrower at the top than at the bottom. This allows sunlight to reach the lower branches, preventing them from thinning out. Aim to remove no more than one-third of the plant’s total growth in a single season.
• Removing Dead/Damaged Wood: Prune out any dead, diseased, or broken branches as soon as you notice them. Cut back to healthy wood or to the main trunk.
• Avoid Over-Pruning: Arborvitae generally does not regenerate well from old wood. Avoid cutting back into bare, leafless branches, as these areas are unlikely to sprout new foliage.

Safety First During Pruning

Always prioritize safety when working with sharp tools.

• Eye Protection: Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris.
• Gloves: Wear sturdy gardening gloves to protect your hands from thorns, sap, and blisters.
• Sharp Tools: Ensure your pruners and loppers are sharp. Dull tools can cause jagged cuts that invite disease and require more effort.
• Ladder Safety: If using a ladder, ensure it is stable on level ground. Have someone spot you if working at height.

Troubleshooting Common Arborvitae Problems

Even with the best care, arborvitae can occasionally face challenges. Knowing how to identify and address these issues promptly is key to maintaining healthy plants.

Pests and Diseases

Here are a few common culprits and how to manage them:

• Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause foliage to turn bronze or brown, especially in hot, dry conditions. Look for fine webbing on branches. Treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap, ensuring thorough coverage, particularly on the undersides of leaves.
• Bagworms: These caterpillars construct distinctive, spindle-shaped bags from silk and plant debris. They feed on foliage, causing defoliation. Handpick bags in fall/winter and destroy them. For heavy infestations, apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) when larvae are young.
• Deer Browsing: Deer love to munch on arborvitae, especially in winter. Consider physical barriers like netting, deer fencing, or apply deer repellents.
• Root Rot: Caused by overly wet, poorly draining soil. Symptoms include yellowing, wilting, and eventual plant death. Prevention is key: ensure excellent drainage and avoid overwatering.
• Tip Blight (e.g., Phomopsis blight): Causes branch tips to turn brown or gray and die back. Prune out affected branches during dry weather, making cuts into healthy wood. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.

Environmental Stressors

Arborvitae can also suffer from non-pest or disease issues:

• Winter Burn: Browning of foliage, especially on the exposed side of the plant, caused by harsh winter winds and sun combined with frozen ground that prevents water uptake. Prevent with anti-desiccant sprays (follow label directions) in late fall or by wrapping smaller plants with burlap. Ensure plants are well-watered going into winter.
• Drought Stress: Yellowing or browning of foliage, particularly on older growth, often starting from the bottom up. Consistent deep watering during dry periods is the best prevention.
• Nutrient Deficiencies: General yellowing or stunted growth can indicate a lack of nutrients. A soil test will pinpoint specific deficiencies, which can then be corrected with appropriate fertilizers.

Seasonal Care for Year-Round Health

Your arborvitae’s needs change throughout the year. Adapting your care routine ensures they remain robust in all seasons.

Spring: Awakening and Growth

• Inspect: Check for winter damage, dead branches, or pest activity.
• Prune: Perform any major structural pruning before new growth fully emerges.
• Fertilize: Apply a balanced, slow-release evergreen fertilizer if a soil test indicates a need.
• Water: Begin consistent watering as temperatures rise, especially for newly planted specimens.

Summer: Vigorous Growth and Hydration

• Water: Continue deep watering, especially during hot, dry spells.
• Monitor: Watch for signs of spider mites or other pests, which are often more active in warm weather.
• Light Pruning: You can do light shaping or trim back unruly growth in early summer.

Fall: Preparation for Dormancy

• Deep Water: Give your arborvitae a thorough, deep watering before the ground freezes. This is critical for preventing winter burn.
• Mulch: Replenish mulch if needed to insulate roots and retain moisture.
• Protection: Consider wrapping smaller, exposed plants with burlap or applying anti-desiccant sprays in late fall if you live in a harsh winter climate.

Winter: Rest and Resilience

• Snow Removal: Gently brush heavy snow off branches to prevent breakage. Avoid letting heavy ice accumulate.
• Monitor: Keep an eye out for deer browsing and take preventative measures if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Arborvitae

How Far From a Fence Should I Plant Arborvitae?

For hedges, plant ‘Emerald Green’ 2-3 feet from a fence, and ‘Green Giant’ 5-8 feet away. This allows room for growth and air circulation, preventing damage to both the plant and the fence.

Why Are My Arborvitae Turning Brown?

Browning can be caused by several factors: insufficient water (especially during establishment or dry spells), winter burn, root rot from overwatering, spider mites, or occasionally nutrient deficiencies. Assess your watering habits and inspect for pests or disease symptoms.

Can Arborvitae Grow in Shade?

Arborvitae tolerates partial shade (3-6 hours of direct sun), but it will grow more slowly and have a less dense, more open habit than those in full sun. Deep shade is not recommended, as it often leads to sparse growth and poor health.

Do I Need to Fertilize Arborvitae Every Year?

Not necessarily. If your soil is healthy and plants are growing well, annual fertilization may not be needed. A soil test every few years is the best way to determine specific nutrient requirements. When fertilizing, use a slow-release, balanced evergreen formula in early spring.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Plant Arborvitae?

The ideal times to plant arborvitae are spring (after the last frost) or early fall (at least 6-8 weeks before the first hard frost). This allows the plants to establish their root systems before facing extreme summer heat or winter cold.

Conclusion: Cultivating Your Green Sanctuary

Learning how to grow arborvitae is an incredibly rewarding endeavor that enhances any landscape with enduring beauty and privacy. From selecting the perfect cultivar to understanding the nuances of watering, pruning, and seasonal care, you now have the expert knowledge to cultivate these magnificent conifers.

Remember, consistency in care and keen observation are your best tools. With proper planting and ongoing attention, your arborvitae will flourish, creating a vibrant, green backdrop for your home for years to come. Step outside, get your hands dirty, and enjoy the process of bringing your landscape vision to life!

Taylor Galla Founder of Garden Aider

• Mechanical engineer
• Gardening since 2010
• Univ. of Nevada, Reno

From the author's notebook

Taylor pairs an engineer's eye with years of hands-on work in soil, lawns and outdoor machinery. He tests ideas in his own garden, keeps tractors and mowers running himself, and speaks to local horticulture groups. Every Garden Aider guide is written to be practical, accurate and safe to follow.

“To bring life alive, you just need to mix some love with the compost, bedding, and gardening machines.”

Published Aug 25, 2026