Why One Arborvitae Lags Behind 47 Healthy Neighbors

Individual Variation in Transplant Recovery

One of 48 arborvitae (7 ft, 3–4 years planted) hasn't budded while others are growing. No yellowing/browning, just dull and dormant.

Likely Causes

• Transplant shock can appear up to 5 years post-planting.
• This plant may have been weaker initially.

What to Try

Fertilize now with low-nitrogen formula. But it may be too late. Monitor for bud break. If none by mid-summer, plan replacement.