How to Grow Emerald Green Arborvitae
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Emerald Green Arborvitae
Thuja occidentalis 'Emerald Green'
treeEmerald Green Arborvitae is a narrow, columnar evergreen tree prized for its vibrant emerald foliage and compact upright form. It reaches 40-60 feet tall but only 3-4 feet wide, making it ideal for screens, windbreaks, and accent plantings. The feathery, scale-like foliage maintains its rich color year-round, even in winter.
When should you plant Emerald Green Arborvitae in your zone?
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Example Emerald Green Arborvitae timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Emerald Green 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 Green Arborvitae
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Emerald Green Arborvitae dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in USDA zones 2-8, with best performance in zones 3-6
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Get my Emerald Green Arborvitae timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
First year after plantingYoung trees 2-3 feet tall with developing root systems; foliage is bright green but may appear slightly lighter than mature trees
Water consistently 2-3 times weekly. Mulch around base (not touching trunk) to retain moisture. Avoid transplanting stress by planting in spring or early fall.
Early Growth
Years 2-5Trees growing 1-2 feet per year, developing their characteristic columnar silhouette; foliage deepens to rich emerald
Continue regular watering during dry spells. Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring. Prune only to remove dead or crossing branches.
Vegetative Development
Years 5-15Mature form becoming evident; tree reaching 15-30 feet; dense, uniform branching throughout the canopy
Reduce supplemental watering as tree establishes deep roots, but maintain moisture during extended droughts. Fertilize lightly in spring. Light pruning can shape or maintain width.
Full Maturity
Years 15+ (can live 100+ years)Tree at full height (40-60 feet) with maximum density and vibrant emerald coloration; thick, sturdy trunk
Minimal maintenance. Water during severe droughts. Prune only for structural issues or to control width. No fertilizer needed for established trees.
Winter Dormancy
Late fall through early springFoliage remains emerald year-round but may take on a slight bronze or purple cast in very cold winters due to anthocyanin production
No active care needed. Tree is fully hardy. Protect young trees from heavy snow or ice with burlap wrapping if in heavy snow areas.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Prune infested branches; apply spinosad or neem oil in late spring before damage becomes severe; maintain tree health to improve resistance
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Spray with water to dislodge; apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap; improve air circulation; avoid drought stress
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Prune heavily infested branches; apply dormant oil in early spring; use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap during growing season
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Hand-pick bags in winter and destroy; spray with Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) in early summer when caterpillars are small
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Improve drainage; avoid overwatering; ensure air circulation; remove infected trees; plant resistant varieties in wet sites
Uses
Privacy Screens & Windbreaks
HouseholdThe narrow columnar form and dense branching make Emerald Green Arborvitae perfect for creating living screens, noise barriers, and windbreaks. Plant in single or double rows 3-6 feet apart for effective coverage. [source]
Ornamental Landscaping
HouseholdIts vibrant emerald color and architectural form add year-round visual interest to gardens, entryways, and mixed borders. Excellent as accent specimens or framing elements. [source]
Holiday Greenery & Decorations
CraftFresh branches are used for wreaths, garlands, and floral arrangements during the holiday season. The pleasant aromatic foliage adds fragrance to decorations. [source]
Wildlife Habitat & Shelter
WildlifeDense evergreen foliage provides year-round shelter and nesting habitat for birds and other wildlife, particularly valuable in winter. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalThuja species have been traditionally used in herbal medicine, though modern use is limited. The foliage contains volatile oils with antimicrobial properties, historically used in teas or tinctures (use with caution and 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
Emerald Green Arborvitae is an ornamental tree not harvested for food. Foliage can be pruned for fresh greenery arrangements (harvest in dry weather). Small quantities of branches can be clipped for holiday decorations. Avoid heavy pruning as tree may not recover well; prune only dead, diseased, or crossing branches.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Emerald Green Arborvitae is one of the most popular evergreen trees for landscapes in North America, accounting for millions of trees planted annually across temperate regions.
- 🌱 The name 'arborvitae' comes from Latin meaning 'tree of life,' historically because Native Americans used related Thuja species to treat scurvy and other ailments.
- 🌱 This cultivar can live over 100 years and is remarkably narrow—trees reaching 50+ feet tall may be only 3-4 feet wide, offering maximum screening in minimal space.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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