How to Plant an Arborvitae Tree

Table of Contents

Selecting the Right Arborvitae

How to plant an arborvitae tree – Choosing the perfect arborvitae for your landscape requires careful consideration of several factors. Understanding the different varieties, their growth habits, and their suitability for your specific climate and soil conditions will ensure a thriving and beautiful addition to your garden. This section will guide you through the process of selecting the ideal arborvitae for your needs.

Arborvitae Variety Comparison, How to plant an arborvitae tree

Selecting the appropriate arborvitae depends heavily on the desired mature size, growth rate, and hardiness of the specific cultivar. The following table provides a comparison of some popular varieties. Remember that these are approximate values, and actual growth may vary based on site conditions.

Variety	Mature Size (H x W)	Growth Rate (ft/year)	Hardiness Zones
Thuja occidentalis ‘Emerald Green’	15-20 ft x 3-5 ft	1-2	3-7
Thuja occidentalis ‘Techny’	15-20 ft x 4-6 ft	1-2	3-8
Thuja plicata ‘Green Giant’	40-60 ft x 10-15 ft	3-4	5-7
Thuja orientalis ‘Aurea Nana’	3-5 ft x 3-5 ft	0.5-1	5-8

Ideal Soil Conditions for Arborvitae

Arborvitae thrive in well-drained, slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. Poor drainage can lead to root rot, a significant problem for these evergreens. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter like compost to improve drainage and aeration. Sandy soils may require more frequent watering, especially during dry periods. Consistent moisture is crucial, but avoid waterlogged conditions.

Selecting a Healthy, Disease-Free Sapling

Choosing a healthy sapling is paramount to successful planting. Inspect the plant carefully for signs of disease or pest infestation. Look for a vibrant green color, strong branching, and no signs of wilting, discoloration, or insect damage. The root ball should be firm and intact, and the needles should be pliable and not brittle. Avoid plants with damaged or broken branches.

Sourcing Arborvitae from Reputable Nurseries

Purchasing arborvitae from reputable nurseries or garden centers ensures a higher likelihood of acquiring healthy, high-quality plants. These establishments typically source their plants from reputable growers and provide appropriate care. Ask questions about the plant’s origin, care requirements, and any known diseases or pests in the area. A reputable nursery will be knowledgeable and willing to assist you in selecting the right plant for your needs.

Preparing the Planting Site

Proper site preparation is crucial for the successful establishment and long-term health of your arborvitae. A well-prepared planting site ensures the tree has access to the necessary nutrients and water, promoting vigorous growth and disease resistance. Neglecting this step can lead to stunted growth, susceptibility to pests and diseases, and ultimately, tree failure.

Careful consideration of several factors is essential for optimal arborvitae planting. These include the dimensions of the planting hole, the spacing between trees, soil composition, and the overall site’s environmental conditions.

Planting Hole Preparation

Digging the appropriate planting hole is the first step towards ensuring your arborvitae thrives. The hole should be significantly larger than the root ball, allowing for ample space for root expansion and preventing root circling. This is especially important for container-grown trees, where roots can become tightly bound.

Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball: This provides sufficient space for root spread and encourages healthy root growth.
Dig a hole the same depth as the root ball: Planting too deep can suffocate the roots, while planting too shallow can leave the roots exposed and vulnerable to drying out. Ensure the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding ground.
Loosen the soil at the bottom of the hole: This facilitates root penetration and prevents compaction, which can hinder water and nutrient uptake.
Amend the soil with organic matter: Mixing in compost or other organic matter improves soil drainage, aeration, and nutrient content. A ratio of 25% organic matter to 75% native soil is a good starting point. This amendment enriches the soil and creates a welcoming environment for the roots.

Arborvitae Spacing

Proper spacing between arborvitae trees is essential for optimal growth and prevents overcrowding. Overcrowding leads to competition for resources like sunlight, water, and nutrients, resulting in weaker, more susceptible trees. The required spacing depends on the mature size of the specific arborvitae cultivar. Always consult the plant tag or a reliable horticultural resource for the mature dimensions of your chosen variety.

For example, a smaller cultivar might require only 2-3 feet of spacing, while larger varieties may need 4-6 feet or more. Insufficient spacing can lead to dense, poorly ventilated canopies, increasing the risk of fungal diseases.

Soil Testing

Soil testing provides valuable insights into the nutrient levels in your planting site. This information helps determine whether amendments are needed to optimize soil conditions for healthy arborvitae growth. A soil test can reveal deficiencies in essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, allowing you to address these imbalances before planting.

Soil testing kits are readily available at garden centers and online. Follow the kit’s instructions carefully for accurate results. Based on the test results, you can amend the soil with fertilizers or other soil amendments to create an ideal growing environment.

Planting an arborvitae requires careful consideration of sunlight and soil drainage. The process mirrors that of other evergreens, though the specific needs vary. For instance, understanding the growth habits is crucial, much like researching a different species, such as the vibrant red tea tree plant , before planting. Once you’ve chosen your spot and prepared the soil accordingly, the planting of your arborvitae should proceed smoothly, ensuring a thriving addition to your landscape.

Ideal Planting Location

The ideal planting location for arborvitae combines sufficient sunlight exposure with protection from harsh winds. Arborvitae generally thrive in full sun to partial shade, though the specific light requirements vary depending on the cultivar. Excessive shade can lead to weak growth and susceptibility to disease.

Visualize a location with a gently sloping, well-drained area that receives at least four to six hours of sunlight daily. Ideally, this spot would be sheltered from strong, prevailing winds, which can desiccate the foliage and damage the tree. A location near a building or a natural windbreak, such as a taller hedge or group of trees, can provide this protection.

The visual should evoke a sense of calm, sheltered space with ample, yet not excessive, sunlight.

Long-Term Care and Maintenance: How To Plant An Arborvitae Tree

Ensuring the longevity and beauty of your arborvitae requires consistent care beyond the initial planting. Proper fertilization, pruning, and winter protection are key to maintaining a healthy and vibrant tree. Addressing potential issues promptly will also contribute to its overall health and aesthetic appeal.

Fertilization

Arborvitae, while relatively low-maintenance, benefit from periodic fertilization to support robust growth and vibrant color. Over-fertilizing can be detrimental, so a balanced approach is crucial. A slow-release, granular fertilizer formulated for evergreens is ideal. These fertilizers release nutrients gradually over several months, minimizing the risk of burning the roots. A good option is a 10-10-10 formulation, although the specific NPK ratio may vary depending on your soil’s needs.

Apply the fertilizer in early spring, before new growth begins, scattering it evenly around the base of the tree, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk to avoid direct contact. Avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall, as this can stimulate late growth that is vulnerable to winter damage. For mature trees, fertilization might only be necessary every other year or even less frequently.

Pruning

Regular pruning is essential for maintaining the arborvitae’s shape and removing dead or diseased branches. Improper pruning can damage the tree, so understanding the correct techniques is vital.

Light Pruning: This involves removing dead, damaged, or crossing branches. It should be done annually, preferably in late spring or early summer. Use sharp, clean pruning shears to make clean cuts, just above a node or branch collar.
Shaping: If you wish to maintain a specific shape, light shaping can be done after the main growth spurt in late spring or early summer. Avoid heavy pruning, which can damage the tree and create unsightly bare patches. Remove only small amounts of growth at a time.
Shearing: Some arborvitae cultivars tolerate shearing, which involves trimming the ends of branches to create a formal shape. This is best done with hedge trimmers and should be done gradually to avoid harming the tree. Over-shearing can lead to the loss of natural texture and appearance.

Winter Protection

In colder climates, young arborvitae may require protection from harsh winter conditions, such as extreme cold, drying winds, and heavy snow. The protection measures will depend on the severity of the winter.

Windbreaks: Protecting young trees from drying winds is crucial. Consider erecting a windbreak using burlap or other suitable materials.
Watering: Ensure the soil remains adequately moist throughout the winter, especially during periods of thaw and refreeze. This will help prevent winter desiccation.
Snow Removal: Heavy snow accumulation can cause branches to break. Gently remove heavy snow from the branches to prevent damage.
Wrappings: For extremely cold climates, wrapping the trunk of young trees with burlap or other protective material can help insulate them and protect them from sunscald.

Addressing Browning or Discoloration

Browning or discoloration in arborvitae can be caused by several factors, including drought stress, winter burn, fungal diseases, or pest infestations.

Drought Stress: Ensure consistent watering, especially during dry periods. Deep, infrequent watering is better than shallow, frequent watering.
Winter Burn: This is caused by winter sun and wind. Protecting the tree with a windbreak or wrapping can help prevent this.
Fungal Diseases: If fungal diseases are suspected, consult with a local arborist or horticultural expert to determine the appropriate treatment. This may involve fungicides or other remedial measures.
Pest Infestations: Infestations by insects or mites can also cause browning or discoloration. Inspect the tree regularly for signs of pests. If found, contact a local arborist or horticultural expert to determine the best course of action.

FAQ Insights

Can I plant an arborvitae in full sun?

While some varieties tolerate full sun, most prefer partial shade, especially during the hottest parts of the day. Morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal.

How often should I fertilize my arborvitae?

A slow-release fertilizer applied once a year in early spring is usually sufficient. Avoid over-fertilizing.

What should I do if my arborvitae is browning?

Browning can indicate several issues, including drought stress, pest infestation, or disease. Check for these factors and address them accordingly. Proper watering and mulching are often preventative measures.

When is the best time to plant an arborvitae?

Spring or fall are generally the best times to plant, as the weather is cooler and less stressful for the tree.

How deep should the planting hole be?

The hole should be twice as wide as the root ball and as deep as the root ball itself.