How to Grow Emerald Spreader
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Emerald Spreader
Thuja occidentalis 'Emerald Spreader'
shrubEmerald Spreader is a low-growing, spreading evergreen conifer cultivar of Eastern Arborvitae with soft, feathery foliage that maintains a vibrant emerald green color year-round. This compact shrub typically grows 2-3 feet tall and 4-6 feet wide, making it ideal for borders, foundation plantings, and landscape edging. It provides excellent ornamental value and year-round interest with minimal maintenance.
When should you plant Emerald Spreader in your zone?
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Example Emerald Spreader timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Emerald Spreader
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 Spreader
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 best performance in zones 3-7
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Get my Emerald Spreader timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
First 6-12 monthsYoung plant with developing root system; foliage is soft and tender
Water regularly to keep soil moist; provide afternoon shade in hot climates; avoid heavy pruning; mulch around base to retain moisture and regulate temperature
Vegetative Growth
Year 2-3Plant develops fuller, more robust branching; emerald green color intensifies
Continue regular watering; apply balanced fertilizer in spring; light pruning to shape if desired; monitor for pests and diseases
Established Growth
Year 3-5 and beyondPlant reaches mature dimensions; dense, spreading habit with rich emerald foliage
Reduce watering frequency as plant becomes more drought-tolerant; prune to maintain shape and size; fertilize annually in spring; inspect for winter damage
Mature
5+ yearsFully developed 2-3 feet tall and 4-6 feet wide with consistent, attractive form
Minimal pruning needed; water during extended droughts; monitor for spider mites in hot, dry conditions; rake away fallen debris to prevent fungal issues
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with horticultural oil or neem oil; increase humidity by misting in hot, dry periods; use miticides if severe
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Hand-pick bags in fall/winter when visible; apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) in early summer when larvae emerge
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Prune out heavily infested branches; apply horticultural oil in late winter or early spring; use systemic insecticides if needed
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Strong water spray to dislodge; insecticidal soap spray; encourage natural predators like ladybugs
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Remove and destroy infested foliage; prune out affected branches; apply systemic insecticides in spring
Uses
Landscape Edging and Foundation Planting
OrnamentalEmerald Spreader's low, spreading habit makes it ideal for creating clean borders, foundation plantings, and mass plantings in residential landscapes. Its year-round emerald color adds structure and visual interest to garden beds and entry areas. [source]
Wildlife Habitat
WildlifeThe dense foliage provides shelter and nesting sites for birds and small wildlife. The plant offers year-round coverage that is valuable in cold climates where other vegetation dies back. [source]
Privacy Screening
HouseholdWhen planted in clusters or rows, Emerald Spreader can serve as a low privacy screen or windbreak, especially effective along property lines or garden boundaries. Multiple plants create a cohesive visual barrier. [source]
Winter Interest
HouseholdUnlike deciduous plants, Emerald Spreader maintains its vibrant emerald green color throughout winter, providing essential color and form when much of the landscape is dormant or brown. [source]
Harvest Tips
This is an ornamental plant not harvested for food or traditional products. Prune selectively to maintain shape and size; best pruning done in spring before new growth or light summer pruning. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches anytime; avoid heavy pruning that exposes bare wood, as Emerald Spreader does not regenerate from old wood well.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Emerald Spreader is a cultivar of Eastern Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis), native to eastern North America, where it has been used in landscaping for centuries.
- 🌱 The name 'Emerald' refers to its rich green color that persists even in cold winters without the bronze or reddish discoloration common in some other arborvitae cultivars.
- 🌱 Arborvitae foliage contains aromatic oils that are sometimes used in traditional medicine; the wood is naturally rot-resistant and has been historically used for fence posts and outdoor structures.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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