How To Plant An Arborvitae Tree – For A Thriving, Low-Maintenance

Dreaming of a lush, green screen that offers year-round privacy and enhances your property’s curb appeal? Arborvitae trees are a fantastic choice, known for their dense foliage, columnar growth, and relatively easy care.

They transform an ordinary yard into a secluded oasis, providing a natural barrier against noise and prying eyes. But to unlock their full potential, getting the planting process right from the start is absolutely crucial.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of how to plant an arborvitae tree, from selecting the perfect specimen to crucial aftercare. We’ll share expert tips to ensure your new evergreens not only survive but thrive for years to come.

Choosing the Right Arborvitae Cultivar and Location

The journey to a magnificent arborvitae hedge begins with smart choices. Not all arborvitae are created equal, and their ultimate success hinges on selecting the right type for your climate and specific site conditions.

Consider your local hardiness zone and the mature size of the cultivar before making a purchase.

Popular Arborvitae Cultivars for Home Landscapes

Many varieties of Thuja occidentalis (American Arborvitae) and Thuja plicata (Western Red Cedar) are available. Each offers unique characteristics.

• ‘Emerald Green’ (Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’): A very popular choice, known for its vibrant green color and narrow, pyramidal form. It typically reaches 12-15 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide.
• ‘Green Giant’ (Thuja plicata ‘Green Giant’): A fast-growing hybrid, reaching impressive heights of 40-60 feet and widths of 12-20 feet. Excellent for large privacy screens.
• ‘Nigra’ (Thuja occidentalis ‘Nigra’): Offers a darker green foliage that holds its color well through winter. Grows to about 20-25 feet tall and 5-6 feet wide.

Researching these options will help you match the right tree to your landscaping vision.

Site Selection: Sun, Soil, and Spacing

Arborvitae generally prefer full sun, meaning at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. While some varieties tolerate partial shade, too little sun can lead to sparse growth and a less dense hedge.

Good soil drainage is non-negotiable for arborvitae. They absolutely detest “wet feet,” which can quickly lead to root rot. If your soil is heavy clay, you’ll need to amend it significantly.

Proper spacing is also key for a dense hedge. For most privacy screens, plant arborvitae 3-5 feet apart, measuring from the center of each tree. For ‘Green Giant’, allow 5-8 feet between plants.

Essential Tools and Materials for Planting

Having the right equipment on hand makes the planting process much smoother and safer. Before you even think about digging, gather your tools.

Your Planting Toolkit

• Shovel or Spade: A sturdy digging tool is essential.
• Trowel: Useful for precise soil adjustments around the root ball.
• Gardening Gloves: Protect your hands from blisters and thorns.
• Pruning Shears or Knife: To gently score or loosen tangled roots.
• Measuring Tape: For accurate spacing and hole depth.
• Wheelbarrow or Tarp: To move soil and amendments efficiently.
• Garden Hose or Watering Can: For immediate and thorough watering.

Materials You’ll Need

• Compost or Aged Manure: To enrich poor soil and improve drainage.
• Mulch (Arborist Chips, Pine Bark): For moisture retention and weed suppression.
• Root Stimulator (Optional): Can help encourage new root growth.
• Tree Stakes and Ties (Optional): For taller, newly planted trees in windy areas.
• Safety Glasses: Always a good idea when working with tools or near branches.

Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment, especially when using sharp tools. Safety first in the garden!

Preparing Your Site: The Foundation for Success

Proper site preparation is arguably the most critical step in establishing healthy arborvitae. Don’t skip this part; it pays dividends in the long run.

Soil Testing and Amendment

A soil test will reveal your soil’s pH and nutrient levels, guiding your amendment strategy. Arborvitae generally prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0).

If your soil is heavy clay, incorporate a significant amount of organic matter like compost or aged pine bark fines. This improves aeration and drainage. For sandy soils, organic matter helps retain moisture and nutrients.

Aim for a soil mixture that is loose and crumbly, allowing roots to spread easily.

Digging the Perfect Planting Hole

The planting hole should be at least twice as wide as the root ball of your arborvitae. This wide perimeter allows new roots to easily extend into loosened soil, reducing transplant shock.

However, the depth of the hole is just as important. Dig it only as deep as the root ball, ensuring that the root flare – the point where the trunk widens at the base – will be level with or slightly above the surrounding soil surface.

Planting too deep is a common mistake that can suffocate the roots and lead to decline.

Step-by-Step: How to Plant an Arborvitae Tree

Now that your site is prepped and your tools are ready, it’s time for the main event. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a successful planting.

1. Hydrate the Root Ball

Before removing the arborvitae from its container or burlap, thoroughly water the root ball. A well-hydrated plant experiences less stress during transplanting.

Let it soak for 15-30 minutes until the soil is consistently moist.

2. Carefully Remove from Container or Burlap

For container-grown trees, gently tip the pot on its side and slide the tree out. If it’s stubborn, you might need to tap the bottom or even carefully cut the container away.

For balled-and-burlapped (B&B) trees, place the tree directly into the hole before removing any materials. Once positioned, carefully cut and remove all burlap, twine, and wire cages from around the root ball. Failure to remove these can girdle the roots as the tree grows.

3. Inspect and Loosen Roots

Examine the root ball for any circling or girdling roots. If the roots are tightly matted or circling the perimeter, gently tease them apart with your fingers or make a few vertical cuts with a clean knife or pruning shears.

This encourages outward root growth into the surrounding soil. For B&B trees, focus on the top and outer layers of the root ball.

4. Position the Arborvitae in the Hole

Place the arborvitae into the prepared hole. Check the depth again: the root flare must be level with or slightly above the soil line. If it’s too deep, lift the tree and add more soil beneath it. If it’s too shallow, remove some soil.

Stand back and check that the tree is straight from all angles. Adjust as needed.

5. Backfill with Soil

Begin backfilling the hole with the amended soil mixture. Gently tamp the soil around the root ball to remove large air pockets, but avoid compacting it too much. You want the soil to be firm enough to hold the tree upright but loose enough for water and roots to penetrate.

Continue backfilling until the hole is filled to the original soil line, keeping the root flare exposed.

6. Create a Watering Basin

Form a small, circular berm or “doughnut” of soil around the outer edge of the planting hole. This basin will help contain water directly over the root zone, preventing runoff and ensuring deep saturation.

This is especially important for the first few months after you how to plant an arborvitae tree.

7. Water Thoroughly

Immediately after planting, water the arborvitae deeply. Fill the watering basin several times, allowing the water to slowly soak into the soil. This settles the soil around the roots and eliminates any remaining air pockets.

Continue watering until the soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged.

8. Apply Mulch

Spread a 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch, such as arborist chips, pine bark, or shredded leaves, over the entire planting area. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk of the arborvitae, creating a “doughnut” shape rather than a “volcano” mound.

Mulch conserves soil moisture, regulates soil temperature, and suppresses weeds, which compete for vital resources.

Post-Planting Care: Watering, Mulching, and Protection

The work doesn’t stop once the arborvitae is in the ground. The first year is critical for establishment, requiring consistent attention to watering and protection.

Consistent Watering Schedule

Newly planted arborvitae need consistent moisture to establish a strong root system. For the first few weeks, check the soil moisture every 2-3 days.

Water deeply when the top 2-3 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. The goal is moist, not soggy, soil. Reduce frequency as the weather cools and during periods of rain.

A good rule of thumb is to provide 1 inch of water per week, either from rain or irrigation, during the growing season.

Monitoring and Adjusting Mulch

Periodically check your mulch layer. Replenish it as needed to maintain the 2-4 inch thickness. Ensure it’s still pulled away from the trunk to prevent moisture buildup and potential pest or disease issues.

Mulch also acts as a barrier against lawnmower damage, a common cause of injury to young trees.

Protection from Pests, Disease, and Wildlife

Young arborvitae can be vulnerable. Inspect foliage regularly for signs of pests like bagworms or spider mites, and treat promptly with appropriate organic or chemical controls.

Deer are notoriously fond of arborvitae, especially in winter. Consider using deer repellent sprays or installing temporary fencing for the first few winters to protect your investment. Antler rubbing can also severely damage young trunks.

Troubleshooting Common Arborvitae Planting Issues

Even with the best intentions, problems can arise. Knowing how to diagnose and address common issues can save your arborvitae.

Yellowing or Browning Foliage

This is often a sign of stress. Overwatering (root rot) or underwatering (drought stress) are the most common culprits. Check the soil moisture deeply before watering again.

Other causes can include nutrient deficiencies (perform a soil test), extreme temperature fluctuations, or winter burn from harsh winds and sun.

Slow Growth or Stunted Development

If your arborvitae isn’t growing as expected, revisit your planting site. Is it getting enough sunlight? Is the soil well-drained? Are there competing weeds or turfgrass nearby?

Ensure the root flare is exposed and the tree isn’t planted too deeply. Sometimes, a slow-release granular fertilizer formulated for evergreens can provide a gentle boost, but always follow label instructions carefully.

Pest and Disease Management

Bagworms are a notable pest for arborvitae. Look for spindle-shaped bags on branches. Hand-picking them off in fall or winter is effective for small infestations. For larger issues, consult a local arborist or garden center for targeted treatments.

Spider mites can cause bronzing of foliage. A strong stream of water can dislodge them, or insecticidal soaps can be used. Preventative care, like proper watering, makes trees more resilient to these issues.

Year-Round Arborvitae Care for Lasting Beauty

Once established, arborvitae are relatively low-maintenance, but some ongoing care ensures their long-term health and aesthetic appeal.

Pruning for Shape and Health

Arborvitae generally require minimal pruning. The best time to prune is in late spring after new growth has emerged. You can lightly shear them to maintain a desired shape or size, especially for hedges.

Avoid cutting into old wood that has no green foliage, as arborvitae do not readily sprout new growth from bare branches. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches as soon as you notice them.

Fertilization Guidelines

Established arborvitae rarely need heavy fertilization. If a soil test indicates a deficiency, or if growth is sluggish, apply a balanced, slow-release evergreen fertilizer in early spring.

Look for formulations with an NPK ratio like 10-10-10 or 12-4-8. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can burn roots and lead to excessive, weak growth.

Winter Protection

In colder climates, young arborvitae can benefit from some winter protection. Anti-desiccant sprays can help reduce moisture loss from foliage during dry, windy winter conditions. You can also loosely wrap burlap around young trees to protect them from winter burn and deer browsing.

Ensuring the trees are well-watered going into winter is also crucial, especially if autumn has been dry.

Frequently Asked Questions About Arborvitae Planting

Q1: When is the best time of year to plant arborvitae?

A: The ideal times are early spring after the last frost, or early fall, giving the trees ample time to establish roots before extreme summer heat or winter cold. Avoid planting in the peak of summer or when the ground is frozen.

Q2: How far apart should I plant arborvitae for a privacy hedge?

A: For a dense privacy hedge, plant most arborvitae cultivars (like ‘Emerald Green’) 3-4 feet apart, measuring from the center of each tree. For larger varieties like ‘Green Giant’, space them 5-8 feet apart.

Q3: Do arborvitae need staking after planting?

A: Most arborvitae do not require staking unless they are very tall and slender, or planted in a particularly windy location. If you do stake, ensure the ties are loose enough to allow some sway, which helps the trunk strengthen naturally, and remove them after one year.

Q4: My arborvitae needles are turning brown. What’s wrong?

A: Browning can indicate several issues. The most common are inconsistent watering (too much or too little), winter burn, or pest infestations like spider mites. Check soil moisture, ensure proper drainage, and inspect for pests. If it’s winter, some inner needles naturally brown and drop.

Q5: Can I plant arborvitae near a house foundation?

A: While arborvitae have a fibrous root system that is generally not aggressive, it’s wise to plant them at least 3-5 feet away from your foundation. This provides adequate space for mature growth and prevents potential moisture issues against the building.

Conclusion: Your Thriving Arborvitae Journey Begins

Planting arborvitae is an investment in your landscape, offering beauty, structure, and privacy for many years. By carefully following these detailed steps on how to plant an arborvitae tree, you’ve laid the groundwork for success.

Remember, patience and consistent care, especially in the first year, are your best allies. With the right start and ongoing attention, your arborvitae will flourish, transforming your outdoor space into the verdant sanctuary you envision. Happy gardening!

• Author
• Recent Posts

Taylor Galla

Founder and Author at Gardenaider

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

Latest posts by Taylor Galla (see all)

• How To Plant Boxwood – For Thriving, Low-Maintenance Hedges - September 17, 2026
• How To Grow A Boxwood Hedge – For Dense, Year-Round Greenery - September 17, 2026
• How To Feed Boxwood Shrubs – Boost Vigor And Achieve Dense Greenery - September 17, 2026