How to Grow American Arborvitae
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American Arborvitae
Thuja occidentalis
treeAmerican arborvitae is a native evergreen conifer prized for its narrow, columnar form and soft, feathery foliage that turns bronze or russet in winter. It grows 15-60 feet tall depending on variety and is commonly used for hedges, windbreaks, and ornamental screening. The tree is hardy, low-maintenance, and adapts well to various soil conditions.
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Example American Arborvitae timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant American Arborvitae
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest American Arborvitae
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 2-8, with excellent cold hardiness; performs better in northern regions and can struggle in intense heat and humidity of zone 8+
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Get my American Arborvitae timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
First yearYoung transplant with new root growth and limited foliage expansion
Water deeply 2-3 times per week; apply 2-3 inches of mulch around base (6 inches away from trunk); shelter from harsh winds; avoid fertilizing first year
Vegetative Growth
Years 2-5Rapid height and spread increase; foliage becomes fuller and denser with feathery, scale-like leaves
Maintain consistent moisture; prune only to shape and remove dead branches; fertilize lightly in spring with balanced slow-release fertilizer
Maturation
Years 5-15Plant reaches desired landscape size; growth rate slows significantly; branching becomes robust and well-defined
Water during dry spells; minimal pruning; monitor for pests and disease; prune in late winter or early spring only if needed for shape
Full Maturity
Year 15+Plant fully established with complete canopy; foliage may show seasonal color changes (bronze/russet in winter in northern zones)
Deep water during drought; occasional crown thinning for air circulation; remove any diseased wood promptly; prune hedges in summer after new growth hardens off
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Prune out infested foliage; apply spinosad or neem oil in early spring before mining begins; maintain tree vigor with proper watering
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Spray foliage with strong water stream to dislodge; use miticide or insecticidal soap in severe cases; increase humidity around tree
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Handpick and destroy bags in winter; apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) in spring when larvae emerge; use spinosad
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and
(fungal)
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering; prune out infected branches; apply fungicide in early spring; improve air circulation
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Install deer fencing (8 feet tall); apply deer repellent sprays; plant dense cultivars that are less palatable to deer
Uses
Privacy Screens & Hedges
HouseholdThe narrow, columnar growth habit and dense foliage make American arborvitae ideal for creating living windbreaks, privacy screens, and formal hedges. Single specimens or rows can reach 40-60 feet and provide effective year-round screening. [source]
Wildlife Shelter & Food
WildlifeDense evergreen foliage provides year-round shelter and nesting sites for birds and small mammals. Small cone-bearing seeds offer food for finches and other wildlife. [source]
Aromatic Greenery
CraftBranches have a pleasant, distinctive aromatic quality and are popular in winter arrangements, wreaths, and holiday decorations. The foliage retains scent when dried. [source]
Traditional Herbal Uses
MedicinalHistorically used by Indigenous peoples and in traditional medicine for skin conditions and other purposes. Modern research explores certain compounds in Thuja species, though clinical evidence is limited. [source]
Essential Oil Production
CulinaryAromatic oils extracted from foliage are used in some traditional medicines and fragrances, though internal consumption is not recommended without professional guidance. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
American arborvitae is not harvested like a crop. For ornamental purposes, prune in late winter (February-March) or late spring after new growth hardens. For hedges, clip lightly after summer growth hardens in July-August. Remove dead or diseased branches anytime. Branches can be cut for fresh greenery arrangements in winter.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 American arborvitae is the official state tree of Michigan. Its name 'arborvitae' comes from Latin meaning 'tree of life,' reflecting its historical importance to Native Americans.
- 🌱 A single mature American arborvitae can live 150-200+ years, with some specimens recorded at 400+ years old, making it one of North America's longest-living eastern trees.
- 🌱 Winter discoloration (bronze or russet foliage) in northern climates is a natural stress response to cold temperatures and is not harmful to the tree; foliage returns to green in spring as temperatures warm.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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