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Growth Rates: Emerald Green Arborvitae vs. Sky Pencil Holly

Hello Betty,

Under average conditions:

Emerald Green Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis 'Smaragd'): ~12 inches per year.
Sky Pencil Holly (Ilex crenata 'Sky Pencil'): ~9 inches per year.

Actual rates vary with sun exposure, soil fertility, moisture, and climate. Both prefer full sun to part shade and well-drained soil. Mulch and regular watering during establishment maximize growth.

Gill

Shrubs: Arborvitae Brown Spots After Neighbor’s Chemical Driveway Treatment: Possible Drift Injury; Emerald Green Arborvitae Browning: Juniper Blight Likely; Emerald Green Arborvitae Leafminer: Systemic Treatment and Fertilization; Arborvitae Hedge Sudden Death: Herbicide Damage Suspected; Arborvitae 'Emerald Green' Black Patches: Transplant Shock; Spruce Spider Mite Infestation on Emerald Green Arborvitae Hedge; Leyland Cypress Alternatives: Green Giant Arborvitae for Deer Resistance and Health; Green Giant Arborvitae in Partial Shade: Will They Work?; Emerald Green Arborvitae Spacing: 3 ft or 4 ft?; Diagnosing Browning Emerald Green Arborvitae in First Year

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