Green Giant Arborvitae for Shade Under Loblolly Pines

Can Green Giant Grow as a Privacy Screen Under Mature Loblolly Pines?

A homeowner needs a fast privacy screen in dense shade under mature loblolly pines. White pines planted years ago are too sparse and slow. They ask if Green Giant arborvitae will work.

Green Giant Shade Tolerance

• Yes—Green Giant is notably shade-tolerant for a fast-growing evergreen.
• Grows 3–5 ft/year even in partial shade.
• Reaches 50+ ft tall, narrow spread (12–15 ft).
• Deep green, fragrant, deer/bagworm resistant, hardy to –25°F (zone 5).
• Adapts to wet clay and various soils.

Planting Strategy

• Spacing: 5–6 ft for fast screen; 10–12 ft for long-term specimens.
• Planting: Wide hole, native backfill, mulch, deep weekly watering first year.
• Root competition: Loblolly pines have dense surface roots. Green Giant will compete but establishes well if watered during drought.

Key Takeaway

Green Giant is an excellent choice for a fast evergreen screen in pine shade. Plant 5–6 ft apart, water faithfully the first year, and expect 3–5 ft annual growth.