How to Grow Emerald Cone Arborvitae
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Emerald Cone Arborvitae
Thuja occidentalis 'Emerald Cone'
shrubEmerald Cone Arborvitae is a narrow, columnar evergreen shrub prized for its dense, vibrant green foliage that maintains color throughout winter. This compact cultivar grows in a tight, upright form, making it ideal for screening, borders, and accent plantings in landscapes. It is a relatively new introduction that combines the classic arborvitae appeal with improved cold hardiness and disease resistance.
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Example Emerald Cone Arborvitae timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Emerald Cone 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 Emerald Cone Arborvitae
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Emerald Cone Arborvitae dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-8, with exceptional cold hardiness down to -40°F
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Get my Emerald Cone Arborvitae timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
1-2 months after plantingNewly planted shrub with developing root system; foliage may appear slightly stressed or dull
Water consistently to keep soil moist but not saturated. Avoid heavy pruning. Mulch around base to conserve moisture and regulate temperature.
Active Growth
Spring and early summerVibrant green foliage fills in; columnar form becomes more pronounced; new growth appears lighter green at branch tips
Continue regular watering during dry periods. Light pruning can shape form. Monitor for pests and diseases.
Hardening Off
Late summer through fallGrowth slows as temperatures cool; foliage may deepen in color and become more rigid in preparation for winter
Reduce watering frequency as growth slows. Do not fertilize late in season. Ensure good drainage to prevent ice damage.
Winter Dormancy
November through March (varies by zone)Minimal visible growth; foliage maintains vibrant green color, though some cultivars may show slight bronze tinting in severe cold
No active watering needed in most regions. Provide windbreak protection in extremely windy sites. Snow/ice can damage branches; gently brush off heavy snow.
Year-Round Maintenance
Ongoing after establishmentMature shrub maintaining columnar form and dense evergreen foliage throughout growing seasons
Annual light pruning to maintain shape (late winter/early spring). Fertilize in spring with balanced or slow-release fertilizer. Monitor for spider mites and bagworms.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use horticultural oil or neem oil in spring and summer; ensure adequate moisture to stress mites
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Hand-pick bags in late fall or winter; spray with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) in early summer when larvae emerge
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Apply systemic insecticide in early spring; prune out infested branch tips; maintain plant vigor
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and
Dormant oil spray in late winter; horticultural oil during growing season; improve air circulation
Uses
Privacy Screening & Windbreaks
HouseholdThe dense, columnar form makes Emerald Cone ideal for creating living screens, hedges, and windbreaks in residential landscapes. Multiple plants create effective visual barriers and noise reduction while requiring minimal space. [source]
Holiday Decorations & Greenery
CraftFresh foliage can be harvested for wreaths, garlands, and floral arrangements, especially during fall and winter holidays. The vibrant green color and aromatic needles add festive appeal to seasonal decorations. [source]
Ornamental Landscaping & Accent Plants
HouseholdWith its striking columnar shape and year-round color, Emerald Cone serves as an excellent accent plant for foundation plantings, entry gardens, and formal landscapes. It adds vertical interest and structure to garden designs. [source]
Wildlife Habitat & Shelter
WildlifeDense arborvitae foliage provides shelter, nesting sites, and cover for birds and small mammals throughout the year. The plant offers protection from predators and winter weather. [source]
Traditional Herbal Uses
MedicinalArborvitae has been used in traditional medicine and herbalism for respiratory support and immune function. However, use should be cautious and under professional guidance, as some preparations can be toxic in large amounts. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Emerald Cone Arborvitae is an ornamental shrub and is not harvested for fruit or produce. However, foliage can be lightly pruned for fresh greenery in floral arrangements or wreaths from late fall through early spring. Prune no more than 30% of the plant at one time, and always prune to lateral branches to encourage dense regrowth. Light shearing in late winter/early spring maintains the columnar form.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Emerald Cone Arborvitae is a newer cultivar that was developed to combine the excellent winter color retention of the species with superior disease resistance and compact form, making it an improvement over older arborvitae varieties.
- 🌱 The name 'arborvitae' means 'tree of life' in Latin, and the plant has been valued by Indigenous peoples and early European settlers for its medicinal properties and practical uses in building and crafting.
- 🌱 Emerald Cone is exceptionally cold-hardy and can survive temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C), making it one of the most reliable evergreen shrubs for extreme winter climates.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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