How to Grow Eastern White Cedar
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Eastern White Cedar
Thuja occidentalis
treeEastern white cedar is a coniferous evergreen tree native to northeastern North America, prized for its aromatic foliage, soft feathery texture, and columnar to pyramidal growth habit. It naturally grows in cool, moist environments and is widely used as an ornamental for screening, windbreaks, and hedges. The tree produces small cones and has fragrant, scale-like foliage that turns bronze or brown in winter.
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Example Eastern White Cedar timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Eastern White Cedar
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 Eastern White Cedar
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 2-7, with some cultivars tolerating zone 8
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Establishment & Juvenile
First 2-3 yearsYoung trees develop a pyramidal or columnar form with dense, feathery foliage that is bright green in spring and early summer. Root system is shallow and fibrous.
Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mulch heavily to retain moisture and moderate soil temperature. Avoid transplanting after the first few years. Prune only to remove dead or damaged branches.
Vegetative Growth
Years 3-10Tree develops its mature form and increases in height and density. Foliage remains vibrant green; branching becomes more pronounced with distinctive horizontal or slightly ascending branch patterns.
Continue consistent watering, especially during drought. Monitor for spider mites and bagworms. Light pruning can be done in early spring to shape the tree. Maintain mulch layer of 2-3 inches.
Maturation & Full Form
Years 10+Tree reaches its full height (varies by cultivar, typically 15-60+ feet) with dense, attractive foliage. Develops small, upright cones (0.5 inches long) in fall.
Prune selectively in early spring if needed for shape. Continue watering during dry periods. Inspect for pest damage and disease. Remove any dead branch material promptly.
Winter Dormancy & Color Change
October-April (varies by zone)In late fall and winter, foliage often develops bronze, reddish-brown, or purplish tones due to cold temperatures and reduced sunlight (this is normal and healthy in most cultivars). Growth slows dramatically.
Avoid major pruning or transplanting. Water if soil is dry and temperatures are above freezing. Young trees benefit from burlap wrapping or anti-desiccant spray in harsh climates to prevent winter burn.
Spring Renewal
April-MayFoliage returns to vibrant green as days lengthen and temperatures warm. New growth emerges, and the tree breaks dormancy.
Once growth begins, resume regular watering and monitoring. Remove any dead or damaged branches from winter. Apply balanced fertilizer if soil is poor. This is an ideal time for pruning.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Maintain consistent soil moisture to reduce stress. Spray foliage with water to remove mites. Apply horticultural oil or miticide if severe. Avoid excess nitrogen fertilizer.
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Hand-pick bags in fall or winter and destroy. Spray with Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) in early summer when caterpillars are small. Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap.
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Prune and destroy affected branch tips. Insecticide sprays in spring may help; consult a local extension office for timing.
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Spray dormant oil in late winter before growth starts. Apply horticultural oil in spring when crawlers are active. Maintain tree vigor with proper watering and care.
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Install tall fencing (6-8 feet), apply deer repellents, or choose cultivars with less palatable foliage if deer pressure is high in your area.
Uses
Aromatic foliage and essential oils
HouseholdThe foliage contains aromatic volatile oils with a distinctive, warm, woodsy scent. Dried foliage and branches are used in potpourri, sachets, and as natural air fresheners. [source]
Wildlife habitat and shelter
WildlifeThe dense, evergreen foliage provides critical winter shelter and nesting sites for birds, deer, and small mammals. Seeds are consumed by wildlife. [source]
Traditional herbal remedy
MedicinalHistorically used in traditional medicine for respiratory and immune support (thuja oil is extracted from foliage). Modern use is limited due to toxicity concerns in concentrated forms; consult healthcare providers. [source]
Fresh and dried floral arrangements
CraftAromatic branches are prized by florists and crafters for fresh and dried arrangements, holiday decorations, and wreaths due to their attractive texture and natural fragrance. [source]
Culinary flavoring (caution advised)
CulinaryTraditionally used as a tea flavoring in some cultures, though modern food safety guidelines restrict use due to potential toxins in concentrated oils. Minimal culinary use today. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Eastern white cedar is not harvested in the traditional gardening sense; however, foliage can be pruned in early spring or late summer for fresh arrangements and fragrant foliage. Cones mature in fall and naturally release seeds. If harvesting cones, collect in late fall after they've turned brown and begin opening. Cut branches are valued in floral arrangements and have strong, pleasant aromatic properties.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The name 'arborvitae' (tree of life) was given by French explorers who credited it with curing their crew of scurvy due to its vitamin C content in the foliage.
- 🌱 Eastern white cedar can live 300-500+ years in the wild, with some specimens documented to be over 1,000 years old in remote northern forests.
- 🌱 The wood is naturally rot-resistant, aromatic, and lightweight, making it historically valuable for fence posts, shingles, canoe building, and cedar chests.
Gardening Terms
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