Arborvitae: The Evergreen Superstars for Your Landscape
Arborvitae is a versatile, evergreen tree known for its lush green foliage, natural pyramidal shape, and year-round appeal—perfect for privacy screens, hedges, and landscape structure.
Looking for the perfect privacy screen? Want something that’s low-maintenance, hardy, and stays green all year long?
Meet Arborvitae – the beloved evergreen that checks all the boxes for homeowners and landscapers alike. Whether you’re designing a hedge, accenting your property line, or adding structure to your garden, there’s an Arborvitae variety to match your vision!
At our garden center, we offer Ball & Burlap Arborvitae in assorted sizes – ready to make a big impact from the moment they’re planted. Let’s dig into what makes these evergreens so awesome!
What Is Arborvitae?
Arborvitae (Latin for “tree of life”) are a group of evergreen trees and shrubs in the Thuja genus. Known for their soft, feathery foliage and dense growth habit, these trees are prized for their year-round color and versatility. Native to North America, Arborvitae are tough, adaptable, and incredibly useful in the landscape.
Popular Arborbitae Varieties
Each Arborvitae variety brings something special to the table. Here are three favorites we carry – all available in Ball & Burlap (B&B) for easy transplanting and instant impact:
Emerald Green (Thuja occidentalis 'Smaragd')
Height: 12–15 feet
Spread: 3–4 feet
Why We Love It: Narrow and tidy, this variety is ideal for smaller yards or as a formal hedge. It has a gorgeous deep green color that holds beautifully through winter.
Perfect For: Tight spaces, foundation plantings, and elegant privacy screens.
Green Giant (Thuja standishii x plicata 'Green Giant')
Height: 30–50 feet
Spread: 12–15 feet
Why We Love It: Fast-growing and super hardy, Green Giant is perfect for large-scale privacy and windbreaks. It has a natural pyramidal shape that rarely needs pruning.
Perfect For: Large properties, natural fences, or blocking out a neighbor’s second-story window.
Techny (Thuja occidentalis 'Techny')
Height: 10–15 feet
Spread: 6–10 feet
Why We Love It: Dense and cold-hardy, Techny Arborvitae has a broad pyramidal shape and deep green foliage that stays lush even in tough winters.
Perfect For: Northern climates, foundation plantings, or structured privacy hedges.
Planting Tips for Arborvitae
Ball & Burlap trees are field-grown and offer a well-developed root system for long-term success. Follow these tips when planting your Arborvitae:
Dig the Right Hole: Make the hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep.
Leave the Burlap Intact (Mostly): Set the tree in place with the burlap still around the root ball. Loosen or cut away the top third of the burlap and remove any twine from around the trunk.
Water Well: Soak the root ball and surrounding soil thoroughly after planting. Arborvitae like consistent moisture, especially during their first growing season.
Mulch Smart: Apply 2–3 inches of mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature—just keep it away from direct contact with the trunk.
Care Tips for Happy, Healthy Arborvitae
Watering: Water deeply once or twice a week, especially during hot or dry periods.
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring for a healthy boost.
Pruning: Minimal pruning needed—just shape as desired or remove any damaged branches.
Spacing: Give them room to grow! Check the mature size of your chosen variety and plant accordingly to avoid overcrowding.
"Arborvitae stands tall and steady, a living wall of green that brings beauty, privacy, and peace to every season."
💡Bonus Tips
Privacy Screen Magic: Stagger your Arborvitae in a zigzag pattern for a more natural and full-looking screen.
Winter Prep: Arborvitae are winter-hardy, but young trees benefit from a burlap wrap in harsh winters to protect against windburn and heavy snow.
Companion Plants: Consider planting flowering shrubs or perennials in front of your Arborvitae to add seasonal color and interest.
Ready to Plant?
Whether you're looking for a row of towering Green Giants, a polished line of Emerald Greens, or the durable strength of Techny, our Ball & Burlap Arborvitae come in a range of sizes to suit your landscape needs. Stop by and let us help you pick the perfect variety—and size—for your space.
Transform your yard with the evergreen beauty of Arborvitae. Your future privacy (and curb appeal!) will thank you.
