Below are some "Before & After" examples
of landscaping with arborvitae.

For questions on Planting & Care,
see column at right, as well as our FAQ section.

ARBORVITAE CARE

In re-planting arborvitae we offer a few suggestions to help promote healthy growth and to maintain a 100% survival rate.

Some of these procedures may be obvious to you, but we still feel it’s important to bring them to your attention:

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PLANTING:
Burlap can remain on roots. It helps secure the root ball; however, BE SURE TO CUT THE PLASTIC TWINE  AROUND TRUNK to prevent girdling. Suggested spacing for solid hedges is usually from 2 to 2 ½ feet centered from trunk to trunk.

When arborvitae are planted solid it’s normal for needle loss to occur on the inside of plants where they crowd into each other and don’t receive direct sunlight. When first planting the trees, position the best sides to the outside edge for the most desirable affect.  With adequate sunlight and watering the outside foliage will remain lush and green.

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WATERING:
It’s very critical to provide adequate deep watering the first year to promote new root growth especially when transplanting larger trees. We highly recommend using round, black hard rubber soaker hoses on both sides of the hedge. Although there’s some minor cost initially, it’s definitely a very efficient and economical way to achieve a slow steady soaking over several days and insure plant survival.

Arborvitae are fairly quick to put out new roots after being dug and re-planted, but they must have moist ground to encourage this and to also help them adjust to the shock of being transplanted. Root growth is active year round, but don’t depend on adequate moisture coming from rainfall because it often doesn’t penetrate the roots thoroughly enough especially for the first year.

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SPIDER MITES:
In the nursery we apply preventive applications in the spring and fall with miticide sprays and horticultural oils. This usually gives excellent results. If you have any concerns about this tiny pest, just consult with your local garden center.

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PRUNING:
To encourage thicker hedges, trimming the tops of the trees in late winter or early spring will promote more lateral growth. Often times even a very moderate trimming will accomplish this.

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These are some of the most important things to keep in mind when re-planting arborvitae trees. Once established these trees are fairly easy to maintain, and will add value, privacy and beauty to any landscape.