Emerald Green Arborvitae: A Comprehensive Guide to Care and Maintenance
Arborvitae Overview
Arborvitae, also known as white cedar, are evergreen trees belonging to the cypress family. They are widely used for hedges and privacy screens due to their dense foliage and attractive appearance. Among the various arborvitae species, ‘Emerald Green’ is a popular cultivar known for its vibrant emerald green color and fast growth rate.
Planting and Care
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When to Plant: Plant arborvitae in the fall to avoid heat stress and allow for root establishment before winter.
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Where to Plant: Choose a location with moderately moist, well-drained soil that receives full sun or partial shade. In warmer climates, some shade is preferred to prevent sun damage.
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Planting Instructions: Remove any burlap or container from the root ball and loosen the roots slightly. Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball, and place the plant in the hole with the top of the root ball level with the ground. Fill in the soil around the root ball, water thoroughly, and finish filling the hole while packing down the soil. Add 2 inches of mulch to the surface, avoiding contact with the stem.
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Watering: Water newly planted arborvitae twice weekly for the first few months, and then weekly for the next year or so. Once established, water about half an inch weekly through rainfall or irrigation.
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Fertilizing: Arborvitae generally do not require fertilization. However, if new growth is sparse or slow, apply a balanced fertilizer according to product label instructions.
Pruning
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Light Pruning: Perform light pruning in early spring to maintain a neat appearance and promote thicker growth. Trim leafy parts of branches, avoiding bare wood.
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Shape Maintenance: Prune to maintain the natural shape of the shrub, wider at the bottom and tapering inward toward the top.
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Spiral Topiaries: Adventurous gardeners may prune arborvitae into spiral topiaries.
Overwintering
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Winter Protection: Arborvitae are cold-hardy but can benefit from winter care. Tie stems with twine to prevent snow and ice damage. Wrap burlap around a circle of stakes for additional protection, especially in colder zones.
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Mulching: Mulch around the base of the plant to insulate the roots and retain moisture.
Pests and Diseases
Arborvitae are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but there are a few potential issues to watch for:
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Bagworms: These caterpillars can defoliate arborvitae, starting from the top and working their way down. Remove egg bags by hand or use neem oil to control infestations.
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Spider Mites: Spider mites can damage arborvitae by sucking sap from the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to control infestations.
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Needle and Twig Blight: Fungal infections can cause needle and twig blight, especially in conditions with poor air circulation. Prune off affected branches and treat with a fungicide.
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Stem Canker: Stem canker is a serious fungal disease that can cause lesions, sores, and resin oozing on the trunk or branches. Remove affected branches and consider removing the entire tree if the trunk is affected.
Common Problems
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Browning Leaves in Winter: Arborvitae are winter hardy, but they may lose some vibrancy in extremely cold or dry conditions. Water the plant during winter if the soil is dry or there is insufficient rainfall or snow.
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Dropping Needles: Arborvitae naturally drop their inner needles as they mature. Remove fallen needles to prevent rot.
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Loss of Foliage From Top Down: Bagworm infestations can cause defoliation, starting from the top of the tree and progressing downward. Remove egg bags and use neem oil to control infestations.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are emerald green arborvitae easy to care for?
Yes, emerald green arborvitae are low-maintenance plants that require minimal care.
- How fast do emerald green arborvitae grow?
These trees grow at a rate of 1 to 2 feet per year when young, slowing to about 6 inches per year as they mature.
- How long can emerald green arborvitae live?
The lifespan of emerald green arborvitae ranges from 25 to 150 years.
- Do emerald green arborvitae stay green in winter?
Yes, these trees maintain their emerald green color throughout the year, although they may experience some browning in extreme conditions.
By following these care and maintenance tips, you can enjoy the beauty and benefits of emerald green arborvitae for years to come.