Here’s everything you need to know about how to plant arborvitae if you’re looking to add some greenery to your yard but don’t have a lot of time.
Arborvitae is the perfect solution! This easy-to-maintain plant takes very little effort to keep looking good, and in the fall it turns a beautiful golden color.
Here’s how to plant arborvitae in your yard:
Step by Step on How To Plant Arborvitae
1. Choose a location. Arborvitae like full sun to partial shade, and well-drained soil. Avoid planting them too close to buildings or other structures, as they can grow quite large.
2. Prepare the planting area by removing any weeds or grass. loosen the soil with a shovel or tiller, and mix in some compost if needed.
3. Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of your arborvitae, but only as deep.
4. Place the arborvitae in the hole, making sure that the roots are spread out evenly. Backfill the hole with soil, and water deeply.
5. Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant, being careful not to pile it too thickly. This will help keep the roots cool and moist.
That’s it! With just a little bit of effort, you can add some beautiful evergreen shrubs to your landscape. Enjoy!
What Is The Best Time of Year To Plant Arborvitae?
The best time to plant arborvitae is in the spring, when the weather is mild and the risk of frost has passed.
However, shrubs can also be planted in the fall, as long as they are given enough time to establish themselves before winter sets in.
When choosing a planting site for your arborvitae, make sure to select an area that receives full sun or partial shade and has well-drained soil. Avoid planting in wet, soggy areas, as this can lead to the shrub’s roots rotting.
Prepare the Site
To prepare the planting site, dig a hole that is twice as wide and just as deep as the shrub’s root ball. loosen the soil around the edges of the hole and then backfill it with a mix of equal parts topsoil, sand, and compost.
Once the planting site is prepared, gently remove the shrub from its container or burlap wrapping. Carefully loosen any roots that are tangled or bound up, and then set the shrub in the hole. The top of the root ball should be level with the surrounding soil.
Fill in the hole around the shrub, tamping down the soil as you go to remove any air pockets. Water the area thoroughly to settle the roots into their new home.
Apply a 2-inch layer of mulch around the base of the shrub, making sure to keep it away from the stem. This will help to retain moisture and protect the roots from extremes in temperature.
Watering
Arborvitae are drought-tolerant once they are established, but young plants will need regular watering to help them get established. Water the shrub deeply and thoroughly, allowing the water to soak down to the roots.
Avoid wetting the foliage, as this can lead to fungal diseases.
Fertilizing
Fertilize your arborvitae once a year in the spring, using a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10. Apply the fertilizer according to the package directions, and then water it in well.
Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can damage the roots and lead to unhealthy growth.
Pruning
Arborvitae generally don’t require much pruning, but you may need to trim them back if they become overgrown or damaged. To do this, simply cut back the branches to the desired length using a sharp pair of pruning shears.
With proper care, your arborvitae will thrive and provide you with years of enjoyment. These hardy shrubs are relatively low-maintenance, making them a great choice for busy gardeners.
Conclusion:
So there you have it! Everything you need to know about how to plant arborvitae. If you have any questions, or if I missed something, please let me know in the comment section below.
And be sure to share this post with your friends and family – they’ll want to get their hands on some of these beautiful trees too!