Growing Arborvitae (Thuja): Versatile Evergreen Conifers

Thuja: Reliable Evergreens for Hedges and Specimens

Thuja (pronounced THOO-yuh) is a small genus of evergreen conifers native to North America and East Asia. Numerous cultivars offer diverse forms, colors, and growth rates, making them invaluable for hedges, screens, and specimen plantings.

Cultural Needs

• Light: Full sun.
• Soil: Average to moist, well-drained soil.
• Water: Water deeply after planting and weekly during the first summer (unless rainfall >1 inch/week). Established plants prefer evenly moist soil but tolerate some drought.
• Fertilizer: Do not fertilize at planting or during the first year. In early spring, apply a light, balanced granular fertilizer.

Pruning

Prune in late winter or early spring to remove browned growth. Heavy pruning is seldom needed; Thuja responds well to light shaping.