# The Growth of Arborvitae: A Comprehensive Guide to Their Speed and Care
Arborvitae, with their elegant pyramidal or columnar forms and rich green foliage, are a popular choice for landscapes seeking privacy, structure, and year-round beauty. Often seen as living fences or natural screens, their appeal lies not only in their aesthetic qualities but also in their relatively manageable growth. Understanding how fast arborvitae grow is key to planning your landscape effectively, whether you’re looking for rapid screening or a more stately, slow-developing specimen. This guide delves into the growth rates of various arborvitae species and cultivars, offering insights into factors influencing their development and how to optimize their health for robust growth.
The growth rate of an arborvitae can vary significantly, influenced by a combination of genetics, environmental conditions, and horticultural practices. While some varieties are bred for rapid vertical ascent, others are cultivated for their dwarf stature and slower, more compact habit. Generally, arborvitae are considered moderately fast-growing trees, with many varieties adding between 1 to 2 feet in height per year under optimal conditions. This means a strategically planted arborvitae can provide a substantial visual screen in just a few years, making them a practical solution for establishing privacy in new garden designs.
| Category | Information |
| :————– | :————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————– |
| **Common Name** | Arborvitae (also known as Thuja, White Cedar, or Cedar) |
| **Growth Rate** | Moderate to fast, typically 1-2 feet per year in height for many common varieties, but can vary. |
| **Mature Height** | Varies greatly by species and cultivar, from dwarf varieties of 3-6 feet to towering specimens of 50-60 feet or more. |
| **Mature Spread** | Also varies, from a few feet for columnar types to 15-20 feet for broader varieties. |
| **Sunlight** | Full sun to partial shade. Full sun generally promotes faster growth and denser foliage. |
| **Soil** | Prefers moist, well-drained soil. Can tolerate a range of soil types but performs best in loamy conditions. Avoid waterlogged or extremely dry soils. |
| **Watering** | Regular watering, especially during the first few years after planting and during dry spells, is crucial for establishing and maintaining growth. |
| **Hardiness Zones** | Typically hardy in USDA Zones 3-7, though specific cultivars may have slightly different ranges. |
| **Key Uses** | Privacy screens, hedges, windbreaks, specimen trees, foundation plantings, ornamental borders. |
| **Disease/Pest Susceptibility** | Generally resistant, but can be susceptible to issues like bagworms, spider mites, and certain fungal diseases (e.g., Cercospora needle blight, Phomopsis blight) if stressed by poor conditions. |
| **Reference Link**| [Arborvitae – Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arborvitae) |
## Factors Influencing Arborvitae Growth Speed
Several factors play a crucial role in determining how quickly an arborvitae tree will grow. Understanding these elements can help homeowners provide the ideal environment for their trees to thrive.
### Climate and Environmental Conditions
The climate in which an arborvitae is planted is paramount. Arborvitae generally prefer temperate conditions and can struggle in extreme heat or prolonged droughts. Adequate rainfall or consistent irrigation is vital, as is protection from harsh winds, which can desiccate foliage and stunt growth. Soil quality also contributes significantly; arborvitae thrive in moist, well-drained soil but will grow poorly in compacted, waterlogged, or excessively sandy conditions.
### Species and Cultivar Selection
The inherent genetic makeup of an arborvitae species or cultivar dictates its potential growth rate and mature size. For instance, the Emerald Green Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’) is known for its consistent, upright growth, typically adding about 1 foot per year, making it a popular choice for formal hedges. In contrast, the Thuja plicata (Western Red Cedar), a larger species, can grow 2-3 feet per year under ideal conditions, reaching much greater heights.
### Planting and Maintenance Practices
Proper planting techniques are the foundation for healthy growth. Ensuring the root ball is adequately hydrated and the tree is planted at the correct depth are critical first steps. Once planted, consistent watering, especially during the establishment phase (the first 1-3 years), an appropriate mulching strategy to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds, and judicious fertilization can all promote vigorous growth. Pruning, while not directly increasing growth rate, helps maintain the tree’s shape and vigor, indirectly supporting healthy development.
> **Did You Know?** Arborvitae are coniferous trees belonging to the cypress family (Cupressaceae). The name “Arborvitae” is Latin for “tree of life,” a testament to the historical use of its wood and foliage for medicinal purposes and its durable timber.
## Understanding Different Arborvitae Growth Rates
Arborvitae is not a monolithic entity; rather, it’s a group of trees with diverse growth habits. The speed at which they grow is one of their most defining characteristics.
### Fast-Growing Varieties for Quick Screening
For those prioritizing rapid privacy or landscape establishment, certain arborvitae cultivars are standout options. These varieties are selected and bred for their vigorous vertical growth.
* **Thuja plicata (Western Red Cedar):** While technically a different species, it’s often grouped with ‘Arborvitae’ in landscaping and is one of the fastest-growing conifers in its native Pacific Northwest. It can reach significant heights and widths relatively quickly.
* **’Green Giant’ Arborvitae (Thuja ‘Green Giant’):** This hybrid is renowned for its exceptional growth rate, often exceeding 2-3 feet per year in height. It forms a dense, pyramidal shape and is highly adaptable to various conditions.
### Slower-Growing and Dwarf Varieties
Conversely, some arborvitae are valued for their more controlled, compact growth, making them ideal for smaller gardens, foundation plantings, or formal designs where rapid expansion is undesirable.
* **’Emerald Green’ Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’):** As mentioned, this cultivar is a popular choice for hedges due to its slow to moderate growth and naturally neat, upright form.
* **’Danica’ Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Danica’):** A true dwarf variety, ‘Danica’ grows only about 1-3 inches per year, eventually reaching a mature size of around 2 feet tall and 3 feet wide. It forms a dense, globe-like shape.
## Optimizing Arborvitae Growth and Health
To ensure your arborvitae reaches its full potential in terms of both size and health, several horticultural practices are recommended.
### Watering and Soil Management
Consistent moisture is critical, particularly for young trees. Aim to keep the soil consistently damp but not waterlogged. Applying a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree (keeping it a few inches away from the trunk) helps retain soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds that compete for resources.
### Fertilization Strategies
While arborvitae are not heavy feeders, a balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied in early spring can provide the nutrients needed for robust growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to weak, leggy growth or even burn the roots.
> **Factoid:** The wood of Arborvitae is naturally resistant to decay and insects, making it historically valuable for applications like fence posts, shingles, and boat building. Its aromatic properties were also utilized in traditional remedies.
### Pest and Disease Prevention
Healthy trees are less susceptible to pests and diseases. Good air circulation, proper watering, and avoiding overcrowding contribute to the overall health of your arborvitae. Should pests like bagworms or spider mites appear, prompt treatment with appropriate insecticides or horticultural oils is recommended. Fungal issues, often exacerbated by wet foliage and poor air circulation, can usually be managed through improved growing conditions and, if necessary, fungicidal treatments.
## Frequently Asked Questions About Arborvitae Growth
### How tall can arborvitae get?
The mature height of arborvitae varies greatly depending on the species and cultivar. Some dwarf varieties reach only 2-6 feet, while larger species like the Western Red Cedar can grow to over 50-60 feet tall. ‘Green Giant’ typically matures between 30-50 feet.
### When is the best time to plant arborvitae?
The best times to plant arborvitae are in the early spring or fall. This allows the roots to establish themselves in the soil before the extreme heat of summer or the harsh cold of winter sets in.
### How much water does an arborvitae need?
Newly planted arborvitae require consistent watering to establish their root systems. During the first year, water deeply once or twice a week, depending on rainfall. Mature trees are more drought-tolerant but still benefit from watering during prolonged dry periods. The soil should be kept consistently moist but well-drained.
### Can arborvitae be
