Boosting Emerald Green Arborvitae Growth: Patience First

Southern Indiana: 3-ft emerald green arborvitae planted 3 ft apart in sun, generous holes with 1/3 peat, mulched, watered. Asked how to make them grow vigorously.

The expert said: you've done everything right. Do nothing for 2 years. Then fertilize with higher nitrogen (e.g., 10-6-4). Early fertilizing causes tender growth that winter-kills in cold regions.

Timeline

• Years 1–2: no fertilizer.
• Year 3+: high-N fertilizer (10-6-4).
• Avoid fall fertilizing in cold zones.
• Establishment first, speed later.