Thuja ‘Green Giant’ (Arborvitae)

Thuja ‘Green Giant’, also known as Green Giant Arborvitae, is an exceptionally fast-growing, large, and hardy evergreen, ideal for creating quick, natural barriers and enhancing privacy in landscapes. Its adaptability to different environments and resistance to common pests and diseases make it a reliable and low-maintenance choice for gardeners and landscapers.

Green Giant Arborvitae: An In-depth Look

Thuja ‘Green Giant’ (Arborvitae) stands out as a fast-growing, large, and resilient conifer, widely used in landscaping for its impressive stature and lush foliage. ‘Green Giant’ is renowned for its vibrant green, dense foliage and pyramidal, upright growth habit. It grows quickly and forms a uniform, natural conical shape, making it a popular choice for screens and hedges.

Native: This hybrid is a cross between Thuja plicata (Western Red Cedar) and Thuja standishii (Japanese Arborvitae), combining the best traits of both species. It’s not native to any specific region but adapts well to various climates.

Plant Type and Habit: As an evergreen conifer, ‘Green Giant’ has a fast-growing, pyramidal habit. It’s known for its vigorous growth and uniform shape.

Size: This arborvitae can reach heights of 40-60 feet (12-18 meters) and spreads about 12-18 feet wide (3.6-5.4 meters), making it one of the larger varieties of Thuja.

Foliage: The foliage is a rich green, comprised of scale-like leaves that are tightly packed, contributing to its dense appearance.

Cones: Small upright seed cones, up to 1/2 inch long (1 cm), emerge as green and then mature to brown.

Bark: The bark is fibrous and reddish-brown, becoming more rugged and furrowed with age.

Uses: Widely used for creating fast-growing privacy screens, windbreaks, and hedges. It’s also used as a specimen plant due to its majestic size and shape.

Hardiness: ‘Green Giant’ is hardy in USDA zones 5-8, showing a high tolerance for a variety of climatic conditions.

Wildlife: Provides shelter for birds and small wildlife.

Toxicity: Generally considered non-toxic to humans and animals.

Deer and Rabbit: The Green Giant Arborvitae was developed with enhanced pest-resistant features, making it less appealing as a food source for deer. However, it’s important to note that in situations where other food options are scarce, deer may occasionally feed on these trees.

Invasiveness: This cultivar is not considered invasive and typically stays within its planted boundaries.

Benefits: Offers rapid growth, privacy, and an easy-care nature. It’s also resistant to many common pests and diseases, making it a resilient landscaping choice.

Arborvitae Growing Tips

Light: Thrives in full sun but can also grow well in partial shade. Full sun exposure leads to denser foliage growth. Usually appreciates some light afternoon shade in hot summer climates. Protect from drying winds, especially when young.

Soil: Adaptable to a wide range of soils but prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil.

Water: Regular watering is important, especially for young plants and in dry conditions. Avoid extreme dry soil in the fall, which can cause the evergreen foliage to dry out in winter.

Fertilizer: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Over-fertilization can harm the plant, so follow the recommended rates.

Pruning: Little to no pruning is required. Prune for shaping or size control in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Avoid heavy pruning.

Mulch: Provide a generous root zone mulch.

Propagation: Propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer.

Pests and Diseases: Watch for bagworms, spider mites, and scale insects. Fungal diseases like root rot can occur in poorly drained soils. Good air circulation and proper planting depth help prevent these issues.