How to Grow Pyramidal Arborvitae
Pyramidal Arborvitae
Thuja occidentalis 'Degroot's Spire'
treePyramidal arborvitae is a narrow, columnar evergreen conifer prized for its distinctive upright form and soft, feathery foliage. It serves as an excellent privacy screen, windbreak, or accent specimen due to its compact width and substantial height. The scale-like foliage ranges from bright green in growing season to bronze or russet tones in winter.
When should you plant Pyramidal Arborvitae in your zone?
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Example Pyramidal Arborvitae timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Pyramidal 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 Pyramidal Arborvitae
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Pyramidal Arborvitae dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-7, with good cold tolerance to zone 2
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Get my Pyramidal Arborvitae timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
2-4 weeks after plantingYoung transplant with compact pyramidal form; foliage bright green and actively growing
Water consistently every 2-3 days for first month. Mulch around base. Avoid transplant shock by keeping soil evenly moist. Plant in spring or early fall.
Vegetative Growth
Spring through early fall, year 1-3Rapid upward and outward growth; foliage becomes denser; pyramidal silhouette becomes pronounced
Maintain consistent moisture during growing season. Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring. Avoid heavy pruning; light shaping only if needed. Prune damaged branches anytime.
Structural Development
Years 3-7Tree reaches desired height and form; branching fills in densely from base to apex; winter color shift to bronze occurs
Continue regular watering during droughts. Fertilize annually in early spring. Prune to maintain shape or remove dead wood. Monitor for scale insects or spider mites.
Maturity
Year 7 onwardFull landscape size (typically 20-30 feet tall, 3-4 feet wide); dense columnar form; foliage color cycles seasonally
Water during extended dry periods. Minimal pruning needed; remove only dead or diseased branches. Avoid heavy snow damage by gently knocking off wet snow. Continue annual spring fertilization if desired.
Winter Dormancy
November through MarchFoliage transitions to bronze, russet, or brownish-green; growth slows significantly; tree conserves energy
Provide final deep watering before ground freezes in fall. Apply anti-desiccant spray to reduce winter moisture loss in harsh climates. No pruning in winter. Use burlap around young trees in zone 2 to prevent snow/ice damage.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick bags in winter or early spring. Apply spinosad or pyrethrin spray in late spring to young caterpillars. Prune heavily infested branches.
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Spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil or horticultural oil in early morning. Increase humidity around tree if possible.
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Apply horticultural oil spray in late winter or early spring before growth begins. Heavy infestations may require systemic insecticides.
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Remove affected branch tips and destroy. Apply spinosad or insecticidal soap during adult emergence in spring.
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Install 8-foot fencing or apply deer repellent sprays. Young trees are more vulnerable than mature specimens.
Uses
Privacy Screens and Windbreaks
HouseholdThe narrow columnar form makes pyramidal arborvitae ideal for creating living fences, privacy barriers, and windbreaks with minimal footprint. Plant in single or double rows 3-4 feet apart to form dense screening. [source]
Landscape Specimen Plant
HouseholdIts striking vertical accent and year-round structure add architectural interest and evergreen color to gardens, foundation plantings, and formal landscapes. [source]
Dried Arrangements and Wreaths
CraftSoft, feathery branches dry beautifully and are popular in holiday wreaths, dried floral arrangements, and seasonal crafts with long-lasting appeal. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalArborvitae foliage has been used traditionally in herbal medicine, though modern use is limited. Thujone, a compound in the foliage, was historically used in folk remedies but should be approached cautiously. [source]
Wildlife Habitat
WildlifeThe dense foliage provides shelter for birds, particularly in winter, and serves as nesting habitat for various songbird species. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Arborvitae is not typically harvested for food or fiber in home gardens. However, small amounts of foliage can be harvested for crafts or dried arrangements any time during growing season. Cut branches early in the morning for best water retention.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Pyramidal arborvitae was first introduced commercially in the 1930s and has become one of the most popular narrow evergreens for landscaping in North America.
- 🌱 The name 'arborvitae' comes from Latin meaning 'tree of life,' reflecting its cultural significance and historic use in landscaping.
- 🌱 The winter color change to bronze is a natural adaptation that helps protect foliage from winter desiccation and UV damage; it is not a sign of disease or distress.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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