Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’ Emerald Green Arborvitae is a popular evergreen prized for its dense, rich green foliage and naturally narrow, upright shape. Growing about 12–15 feet tall and 3–4 feet wide, it makes an excellent choice for privacy screens, hedges, and foundation plantings where vertical interest is desired without taking up much space. Its vibrant color holds well through winter, unlike many other arborvitae varieties. Emerald Green thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil, making it a dependable, low-maintenance option for residential and commercial landscapes. Ideal for creating clean, formal lines or year-round privacy.
More About Thuja occidentalis 'Emerald Green'
- Hardy, evergreen tree
- Perfect for compact privacy screen
- Foliage is a deep lustrous green
- Pleasantly fragrant
Emerald Green Growing and Maintenance Tips
Planting: Plant in full sun to partial shade. At least 6 hours of sun per day will produce the densest growth and richest green color. Prefers well-drained soil. Arborvitae do not like standing water, so avoid low areas where water collects. If soil is heavy clay, loosen the soil around the planting hole to improve drainage. Dig a hole 2–3 times wider than the root ball but no deeper than the root ball height. The top of the root ball should sit slightly above the surrounding soil to prevent settling and root rot. Apply 2–3 inches of mulch around the base to help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk. In windy areas, winter burn can occur. Keeping plants well-watered in fall and using mulch helps protect roots through winter.
Watering: For the first month after planting, water your tree every other day with a generous soak with the hose at the base of the tree. For the next 6 months, water the same way once a week unless it is dry and hot.
Fertilizing: Feed your arborvitae at the beginning of each spring with a balanced, slow release fertilizer.
Pruning: If your tree has space to maintain its naturally elegant pyramid shape, no pruning is necessary. However, if you are growing them closely together as a hedge, you can shear them annually after the last frost.
Height: 12-15 Feet
Spread: 3-4 Feet
Spacing: 30-36" (for privacy fence)
Hardiness Zone: 3-8
Thuja occidentalis 'Emerald Green' Characteristics
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Exposure: Full Sun
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Critter Resistance: Deer will be attracted to this variety
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Soil Moisture: Average Water
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Attributes: Specimen, Drought Tolerant, Mass Planting, Cold Tolerant, Evergreen, slow- moderate Growing, Great Foliage, Low Maintenance
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Foliage Color: Dark Green, Green
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Habit: Upright
