How to Make Thuja Green Giant Trees Grow Fast
The thuja green giant variety of arborvitae is a fast-growing evergreen that has become very popular for hedges and privacy screens. Young trees often grow more than 3 feet per year and readily adapt to soils ranging from clay to loam. Green giant thujas are very-low-maintenance plants and can reach heights of 50 to 60 feet if not pruned.
Plant your thujas in direct sunlight if possible, although these trees will tolerate partial shade as well. If planting for a hedge or screen the trees should be spaced 4 to 8 feet apart. Closer spacing will limit the height of mature trees.
Water the tree thoroughly when planted. In most areas rainfall is adequate for thujas, but hand watering is needed during dry spells. Keep the roots of young trees moist at all times before and during planting as they can quickly die if allowed to dry out completely.
- The thuja green giant variety of arborvitae is a fast-growing evergreen that has become very popular for hedges and privacy screens.
- In most areas rainfall is adequate for thujas, but hand watering is needed during dry spells.
Prune your green giants only if you are training them as a hedge. As landscape plants, these trees naturally maintain a narrow column-type shape without pruning or shaping.
Fertilize your trees sparingly if at all. Green giant thujas are hardy and can usually obtain sufficient nutrients from most types of soil. Do not fertilize thujas when planted or during the first year of growth to avoid potential root burn. If you decide to fertilize, use a balanced slow-release formula and apply in early spring and fall.
Apply a 3 to 4 inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree as far out as the drip line. Wood chips or shredded bark are good materials to use. Keep the mulch at least 6 inches away from the trunk to avoid rot problems. The mulch will help the keep water near to the roots and keep weeds and grass at bay.
- Prune your green giants only if you are training them as a hedge.
- Keep the mulch at least 6 inches away from the trunk to avoid rot problems.
Tip
Avoid planting green giant thujas in the summer when conditions are hot and dry. Thujas need plenty of water when young to ensure the roots system gets well established. If planting as a specimen tree, make sure you have plenty of room to work with. A fully mature 60 foot tall green giant thuja can have a spread of anywhere from 12 to 20 feet.
Warning
Always take into consideration the location of trees with respect to power lines, buildings or other properties when planting.
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References
Tips
- Avoid planting green giant thujas in the summer when conditions are hot and dry. Thujas need plenty of water when young to ensure the roots system gets well established.
- If planting as a specimen tree, make sure you have plenty of room to work with. A fully mature 60 foot tall green giant thuja can have a spread of anywhere from 12 to 20 feet.
Warnings
- Always take into consideration the location of trees with respect to power lines, buildings or other properties when planting.
Writer Bio
Based in Surrey, British Columbia, Stephen Oakley is a freelance writer focusing on environmental issues, travel and all things outdoors. His background includes many years spent working in the Canadian wilderness and traveling worldwide.
