Emerald Green Arborvitae

Thuja occidentalis ‘Emerald Green’ grows best in fertile, loamy, well-drained soil with consistent moisture. Avoid planting in a windy location. Best in full sun, but will tolerate light afternoon shade in hot summer climates. Full shade will negatively affect its overall appearance.

Water regularly and deeply during the first few months to aid in the growth of roots. Once established, reduce frequency while maintaining moist soil, not soggy.

Emerald Green Arborvitae will retain its natural shape as it matures, and regular pruning usually isn't necessary. It can tolerate frequent and heavier pruning if shaped into a topiary. If desired, a light pruning in early spring will encourage thicker growth and a tidy appearance. Do not cut back to bare wood; new growth only develops from the leafy part of the branch.

Best in climates with some humidity and cold winters, Emerald Green Arborvitae flourishes in USDA zones 4-8. It tolerates cooler, drier temperatures better than hot, scorching temperatures. It does not grow well in the heat of the southwest.

Thuja occidentalis 'Emerald Green', commonly called Emerald Green Arborvitae, is a popular choice for hedges and privacy screens due to its compact, upright form and dense, evergreen foliage. Proper spacing is crucial to ensure healthy growth and the creation of a thick, uniform screen.

For a Privacy Hedge or Screen:

• Recommended Spacing: 3 to 4 feet apart
  • 3 feet apart creates a dense, fast-forming hedge with minimal gaps between plants.
  • 4 feet apart allows for slightly more airflow between the trees but will still result in a dense screen over time.

For Windbreaks:

• Recommended Spacing: 4 to 6 feet apart
  • This spacing allows the trees to form an effective windbreak while giving each tree enough room to grow and fill out.

For Stand-Alone Trees or Ornamental Planting:

• Recommended Spacing: 6 to 8 feet apart
  • For individual or ornamental planting, give each tree enough space to display its natural form and allow its foliage to fill out. These trees typically grow to 10 to 15 feet tall and 3 to 4 feet wide at maturity.

Distance from Structures:

• Recommended Distance: 3 to 4 feet away from walls or fences
  • The narrow growth habit of Emerald Green Arborvitae means it can be planted closer to structures than wider trees, but allowing 3 to 4 feet of space prevents overcrowding and ensures good airflow, which helps prevent disease.

For Double Row Planting (Denser Screening or Windbreaks):

• Recommended Spacing for Rows: Space trees 3 to 4 feet apart within rows, and leave 4 to 6 feet between rows. This double-row method provides a denser barrier and increased wind protection.

Root and Canopy Spread Considerations:

• The roots of Thuja occidentalis 'Emerald Green' are generally non-invasive and compact. However, proper spacing allows for better access to water and nutrients, promoting healthy growth.