Arborvitae Tree Care
Cupressaceae, Thuja Orientalis
Belonging to the evergreen family, Arborvitaes are native to eastern Asia
and North America. They are identified by their small, scalelike leaves on
flattened branches. There are many varieties, with the largest growing over
40 feet. Among the most common is the Oriental Arborvitae from China, American
Arborvitae, Northern White Cedar and Western Red cedar which originated in
North America. All varieties of Arborvitae are classified as members of the
Cypress family.
Coming in a variety of shapes and sizes, homeowners love aromatic Arborvitae.
It is one of the most popular foundation plants, and is extremely popular
as a fencing or hedgerow plant.
Arborvitaes are easy to grow, and fast growing. Once planted, they require
little care and maintenance. An annual pruning keeps them in a desirable
shape. Arborvitae benefit from providing some winter protection against damage
from ice and snow, as well as foraging deer.
Did you know? Arborvitae leaves were once used as a remedy for Rheumatism.
A tree or a shrub? Arborvitaes are classifed as trees. Butr, it is
okay, if you refer to them as shrubs.
How to Grow Arborvitaes:
Arborvitae trees are easy to grow and maintain. Established trees thrive
for many years, with only an annual pruning. They prefer slightly acidic
soil, and grow in a variety of soils, from clay to sandy loam. Moist, well
draining soil is preferred, but they will tolerate extremes. Arborvitae grow
well in full sun of partial shade.
Most arborvitae trees are grown as foundation plants around homes and buildings,
or a hedgerow or fence rows. After selecting a location, dig a hole deep
and wide. Mix generous amounts of compost with soil from the hole. Place
the plant in the hole and fill with soil and compost. Tamp the soil lightly.
Water generously after planting. Keep the soil moist for the first few weeks
after transplanting, to promote new root growth.
Pruning Arborvitae Trees:
Once established, your arborvitae will grow with little care for years. The
biggest task is pruning. While people tend to prune them a few times a year,
pruning is best done once a year, in the fall or early winter. If pruned
in the summer, the tips of the pruned branches can turn an unsightly brown.
If pruning can not be done in the fall or winter, do so early in the season,
while new growth is still appearing.
Propagation:
New Arborvitae plants are propagated by seed or cuttings.
When growing from seed, collect seeds in the fall. Start in peat pots indoors
in early spring, or sow directly into a seedbed outdoors. Transplant seedlings
into a garden several weeks later.
To grow from cuttings, cut a 4-5 inch branch of new growth. Strip away the
lower leaves. Plant in coarse, well draining sand. Keep the soil most.
Winter Protection for Arborvitae
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With Shrub Guard |
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In cold climates, it's beneficial to provide winter protection for
Arborvitae. Snow and ice buildup can damage or break individual branches,
or the whole tree. Shrub protection against foraging deer, and rabbits
is also important.
Many people use burlap to cover the plants. It's effective, but unsightly.
It can also cause mold and mildew on the plant.
Another alternative is heavy duty, multi-strand netting. The netting is made
of UV protected material, and will last for years. Green netting results
in a barely visible protection against animals, as well as winter protection
from breakage of individual branches, when snow and ice buildup is a
problem. It offers good air circulation, minimizing the liklihood of
plant molds.
Buy shrub and tree deer and winter protection now!
Varieties:
Arborvitae are native to North America and eastern Asia;. The most common
varieties include:
Pests of Arborvitae:
A vairety of animals feed on Arborvitae, especially in the winter months
when other food sources are scarce. They include deer, rabbits, mice, and
other rodents.
Occasional insect problems can occur from mites and bagworms. Use
insecticides only if necessary.
Diseases Affecting Arborvitae Trees:
The most common plant problems are molds and mildew, often caused in cool,
damp weather. Drowning of roots can also occur in wet weather.
Cankers and sun scorch are also an occasional problem.
Also see: Cedar Shrubs
A favorite Fall pastime is planting fall bulbs. These bulbs produce
the first blooms of spring, brightening up and chasing away the dull, grey
winter scenery.
How to grow your favorite shrub
Buy Arborvitae Trees and Cedar Shrubs - Live trees, bushes and shrubs,
hundreds of varieties
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