arborvitae

These lush, soft-needled evergreens possess densely arranged foliage in various shades of green, yellow, and orange habits and sizes. Pyramidal arborvitaes make outstanding specimen, natural screens, and tall hedges. The rounded and dwarf varieties are popular conifers for foundation plantings, in containers, for small space gardens, and low hedges.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT ARBORVITAE

Not all arborvitae are the same. Mature height, shape, and growth rate vary depending on which variety you choose. With dozens of options available, selecting the right one for your yard can be overwhelming, but we’re here to help!

Upright Arborvitae

Upright Arborvitaes provide 4 seasons of interest, making them perfect options for privacy screens, living fences, property borders, and vertical accents. They’re well-suited for Northeast Ohio landscapes, with varieties available in a range of mature sizes and growth rates. The two most popular varieties are ‘Emerald Green’, and ‘Green Giant’. ‘Emerald Green’ grows to 8 to 12 feet tall and 3 to 4 feet wide at maturity, making it a great option for smaller spaces and foundation plantings. ‘Green Giant’ grows 15 to 30 feet tall and 6 to 12 feet wide, growing 3 feet or more per year, making it a better option for larger spaces, and faster-growing privacy screens.

Dwarf Arborvitae Varieties

For foundation plantings, containers, and smaller spaces, dwarf varieties like Mr. Bowling Ball™, Fire Chief™, and ‘Golden Globe’ stay under 4 feet at maturity. Slow-growing, low-maintenance, and reliably cold-hardy. A good fit for tight beds and container gardens.

Not sure which variety fits your yard? Any of our stores can help you match an arborvitae to your space, sun exposure, and screening goals.

Plant in well-drained, amended soil. Water well after planting; maintain 1” of water once a week the first year. Little pruning needed; shapes itself nicely. Remove dead branches any time. When necessary, prune or shear in late fall to early spring. Shear 2-3″ at a time. Fertilize in early spring, mid-summer, and fall with a slow-release fertilizer. Follow label instructions. Mulch 2″ to suppress weeds, retain moisture and protect against extremes of soil temperature. May shed interior leaves in fall.