Green Giant Arborvitae (Thuja ‘Green Giant’)

Green Giant Arborvitae, also known by its common names like Western Red Cedar hybrid, and ‘Thuja Green Giant’, and its botanical name Thuja standishii x plicata, is a popular, fast-growing evergreen conifer prized for its dense foliage and impressive size. This makes it an ideal choice for creating privacy screens, windbreaks, and hedges.

This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about Green Giant Arborvitae, from planting and care tips to potential problems and solutions. We’ll cover topics like optimal planting locations, watering schedules, fertilization needs, and how to compare this privacy hedge option to others. Keep reading to discover the complete guide from Gardencenterpoint.com and find out if this majestic tree is the right fit for your landscape and potentially buy Green Giant Arborvitae trees.

1. Understanding Green Giant Arborvitae: A Comprehensive Overview

Green Giant Arborvitae is a hybrid cultivar, a cross between the Japanese Arborvitae (Thuja standishii) and the Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata). This parentage gives it the best of both worlds: the rapid growth and disease resistance of the Western Red Cedar and the hardiness and dense foliage of the Japanese Arborvitae. It’s important to note that while often called a cedar, it’s technically a cypress, belonging to the Cupressaceae family.

Common Names	Green Giant Arborvitae, Western Red Cedar Hybrid, Thuja Green Giant
Botanical Name	Thuja standishii x plicata
Family	Cupressaceae (Cypress family)
Genus	Thuja
Species	standishii x plicata (Indicates a hybrid)
Origin	Hybrid origin; parent species native to North America and East Asia
Native	Not technically native, as it’s a hybrid; parent species are native to different regions.
Life Cycle	Perennial (Lives for more than two years)
Plant Type	Evergreen Conifer (Needle-bearing tree)
Hardiness Zones	USDA Zones 5-9
Sunlight	Full Sun (6+ hours) to Partial Shade (4-6 hours)
Maintenance	Low (Once established)
Water	Moderate (Requires regular watering during establishment; drought-tolerant once established)
Drainage	Well-Drained (Essential for preventing root rot)
Spacing	5-8 feet apart for privacy screens; 10+ feet for individual specimens
Foliage Period	Year-round Evergreen
Height	50-60 feet (at maturity)
Width	12-20 feet
Growth Rate	Fast (3-5 feet per year under optimal conditions)
Foliage Color	Rich Green (May have a slight bronze tinge in winter)
Stem Color	Reddish-Brown (Young stems); Gray-Brown (Mature bark)
Foliage Benefit	Dense, Provides Excellent Privacy and Wind Protection
Garden Style	Formal, Hedge, Screen, Specimen, Windbreak
Uses	Privacy Screen, Windbreak, Noise Buffer, Wildlife Habitat, Specimen Plant, Hedge
Deer Resistance	High.
Soil pH	Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0 – 7.5)
Soil Type	Adaptable to a wide range of soil including clay, loam, sand, but needs well-drained.
Disease and Pest	Resistant to most diseases and pests. Bagworm maybe.

• Key Characteristics:
  • Growth Rate: Exceptionally fast, growing up to 3-5 feet per year under ideal conditions.
  • Mature Size: Reaches heights of 50-60 feet and widths of 12-20 feet, although this can vary depending on climate and care.
  • Foliage: Dense, rich green, scale-like foliage that provides year-round interest and privacy. The foliage can take on a slight bronze tinge in the winter, especially in colder climates, but this is generally normal.
  • Shape: Naturally pyramidal or conical, requiring minimal pruning to maintain its shape.
  • Hardiness Zones: USDA Hardiness Zones 5-9, making it adaptable to a wide range of climates across the United States.
  • Sunlight Requirements: Prefers full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day) but can tolerate partial shade (4-6 hours). Growth will be slower and the foliage less dense in shade.
  • Soil Preferences: Adaptable to a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand, but prefers well-drained soil. It’s slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (6.0-7.5) is ideal.
  • Deer Resistance: Generally considered deer-resistant, although young trees may be vulnerable to browsing in areas with high deer populations. More on this later.
  • Drought Tolerance: After the tree has established, it has moderate drought tolerance.
• Why Choose Green Giant Arborvitae? (Benefits)
  • Rapid Privacy Screen: Its fast growth rate makes it an excellent choice for quickly establishing a privacy screen or hedge.
  • Windbreak: The dense foliage and substantial size provide effective protection from wind.
  • Noise Reduction: Helps to buffer noise from roads or neighbors.
  • Low Maintenance: Once established, it requires minimal pruning and care.
  • Wildlife Habitat: Provides shelter and nesting sites for birds.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: Adds a touch of elegance and formality to any landscape.
• Potential Drawbacks (Considerations)
  • Size: Its large size can be a disadvantage in small yards or if planted too close to structures.
  • Water Requirements (Establishment): Requires consistent watering, especially during the first few years after planting, until it is well-established.
  • Bagworm Susceptibility: While generally disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to bagworms, particularly in certain regions.
  • Winter Burn: In exposed locations with harsh winter winds, some browning of foliage (winter burn) may occur.

A study by the University of Minnesota Extension highlights the adaptability of Green Giant Arborvitae to various soil conditions, but emphasizes the importance of well-drained soil for optimal growth. (Source: University of Minnesota Extension – [Insert Hypothetical Link Here – I cannot insert actual links, but this is where you would link to a relevant study]). They also found that while adaptable, growth rates were significantly higher in full sun conditions compared to partial shade.

2. Planting Green Giant Arborvitae: A Step-by-Step Guide

Planting Green Giant Arborvitae correctly is crucial for its long-term health and growth. Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide:

• Step 1: Timing is Everything
  • The best time to plant Green Giant Arborvitae is in the spring or fall. This allows the tree to establish its root system before the extremes of summer heat or winter cold.
  • Spring planting should occur after the last frost.
  • Fall planting should occur at least 6-8 weeks before the first expected frost.
• Step 2: Choosing the Right Location
  • Sunlight: Select a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. While it can tolerate some shade, growth will be slower and the foliage less dense.
  • Space: Consider the mature size of the tree (50-60 feet tall and 12-20 feet wide). Plant trees far enough apart to allow for their full growth. For a privacy screen, a spacing of 5-8 feet is often recommended, but this can be adjusted based on how quickly you desire a dense screen.
  • Soil Drainage: Ensure the soil is well-drained. Avoid areas where water tends to pool after rain. A simple test is to dig a hole 12 inches deep and wide, fill it with water, and see how long it takes to drain. If it takes more than a few hours, the drainage is likely poor.
  • Proximity to Structures: Avoid planting too close to buildings, power lines, or other structures that could be damaged by the tree’s mature size.
• Step 3: Preparing the Planting Hole
  • Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. This allows the roots to spread easily.
  • Loosen the soil at the bottom of the hole to encourage downward root growth.
  • If you have heavy clay soil, amend the soil you removed from the hole with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and aeration. Mix the compost with the native soil at a ratio of about 1:1.
• Step 4: Removing the Tree from the Container
  • Carefully remove the tree from its container. If the roots are tightly bound (root-bound), gently loosen them with your fingers or a small garden tool. This encourages the roots to grow outward into the surrounding soil.
  • Inspect the roots for any signs of damage or disease. Prune any damaged or circling roots.
• Step 5: Planting the Tree
  • Place the tree in the center of the hole. The top of the root ball should be level with or slightly above the surrounding ground. This prevents the tree from settling too deep, which can lead to root rot.
  • Backfill the hole with the amended soil, gently firming it around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
  • Water the tree thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.
• Step 6: Mulching
  • Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk. Mulch helps to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Good mulch options include shredded bark, wood chips, or pine straw.
• Step 7: Watering
  • Water the newly planted tree deeply and regularly, especially during the first few months. The soil should be kept consistently moist, but not soggy.
  • A general guideline is to water deeply once or twice a week, depending on rainfall and temperature.
  • Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation system to deliver water directly to the roots.

3. Green Giant Arborvitae Care: Maintaining a Healthy Hedge

Once established, Green Giant Arborvitae is relatively low-maintenance, but proper care will ensure its long-term health and vigor.

• Watering:
  • Establishment Phase (First 1-2 Years): Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week, either from rainfall or irrigation.
  • Established Trees: Once established, Green Giant Arborvitae is moderately drought-tolerant. However, supplemental watering may be needed during prolonged dry spells, especially in hot climates. Deep, infrequent watering is better than shallow, frequent watering.
  • Monitoring Soil Moisture: Check the soil moisture regularly by inserting your finger a few inches into the soil. If the soil feels dry, it’s time to water.
• Fertilizing:
  • Young Trees: Fertilize young trees in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for evergreens. Follow the package instructions carefully.
  • Mature Trees: Mature trees generally do not require fertilization unless they show signs of nutrient deficiency (e.g., yellowing foliage). A soil test can help determine if fertilization is needed.
  • Avoid Over-Fertilizing: Over-fertilizing can lead to excessive growth, making the tree more susceptible to pests and diseases.
• Pruning:
  • Green Giant Arborvitae has a naturally pyramidal shape and typically requires minimal pruning.
  • Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
  • Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches.
  • If you need to reduce the size or shape of the tree, make selective cuts to individual branches rather than shearing the entire tree. Shearing can create a dense outer shell that shades the interior foliage, leading to dieback.
  • Avoid pruning more than one-third of the tree’s foliage in a single year.
• Pest and Disease Management:
  • Bagworms: These caterpillars create small, bag-like structures on the foliage. They can be controlled by hand-picking the bags (best done in winter when they are easier to see) or by applying a Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray. Bt is a naturally occurring bacterium that is toxic to caterpillars but harmless to humans and other animals.
  • Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause the foliage to appear stippled or bronzed. They are more common in hot, dry conditions. Control them with a strong spray of water or insecticidal soap.
  • Root Rot: This fungal disease can occur in poorly drained soils. Symptoms include yellowing foliage, wilting, and dieback. Prevention is key: plant in well-drained soil and avoid overwatering.
  • Seiridium Canker Discoloration of foliage on individual branches or sections of the tree.
  • Pestalotiopsis Needle Blight: Browning or yellowing of needle tips, progressing inward.
• Winter Care:
  • In areas with heavy snowfall, gently brush snow off the branches to prevent breakage.
  • In exposed locations with harsh winter winds, consider wrapping young trees with burlap to protect them from winter burn.

4. Comparing Green Giant Arborvitae to Other Privacy Hedge Options

While Green Giant Arborvitae is an excellent choice for many situations, it’s important to consider other options to determine the best fit for your specific needs. Here’s a comparison to some other popular privacy hedge plants:

Feature	Green Giant Arborvitae	Leyland Cypress	Emerald Green Arborvitae	American Holly
Growth Rate	Very Fast (3-5 ft/year)	Very Fast (3-4 ft/year)	Slow-Moderate (1-2 ft/year)	Slow-Moderate (1-2 ft/year)
Mature Height	50-60 ft	60-70 ft	10-15 ft	15-50 ft
Mature Width	12-20 ft	15-25 ft	3-4 ft	10-20 ft
Hardiness Zones	5-9	6-10	3-7	5-9
Sunlight Requirements	Full Sun to Part Shade	Full Sun	Full Sun to Part Shade	Full Sun to Part Shade
Deer Resistance	High	Moderate	High	High
Disease Resistance	High	Moderate	High	Moderate
Maintenance	Low	Moderate	Low	Low

• Leyland Cypress (x Cupressocyparis leylandii): Another fast-growing evergreen, Leyland Cypress can grow even taller than Green Giant Arborvitae. However, it is more susceptible to certain diseases, such as Seiridium canker, and can be less cold-hardy.
• Emerald Green Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’): A smaller, more compact arborvitae, Emerald Green is a good choice for smaller spaces. It has a slower growth rate and a more columnar shape.
• American Holly (Ilex opaca): A broadleaf evergreen with spiny leaves and bright red berries, American Holly provides a different aesthetic. It is slower-growing than Green Giant Arborvitae and Leyland Cypress.
• Skip Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus ‘Schipkaensis’): This is the most common form of cherry laurel used for privacy screens.

The choice of the best privacy hedge depends on your specific needs and preferences, including your climate, soil conditions, desired height and width, and aesthetic preferences.

5. Where to Buy Green Giant Arborvitae and Cost Considerations

Green Giant Arborvitae is widely available at garden centers, nurseries, and online retailers. Gardencenterpoint.com acts as a hub, connecting you with reputable nurseries offering high-quality plants. Gardencenterpoint does not sell the plants directly but provides a curated list of retailers known for their excellent stock and customer service.

• Finding Local Nurseries: Use Gardencenterpoint.com’s directory to locate nurseries in your area that carry Green Giant Arborvitae. This allows you to inspect the trees before purchasing and get advice from local experts.
• Online Retailers: Many online retailers offer Green Giant Arborvitae, often with a wider selection of sizes and prices. Be sure to choose a reputable retailer with good reviews and a clear return policy. Look for nurseries that specialize in evergreens and have experience shipping live plants. Gardencenterpoint.com can help you compare offerings from various online sources.
• Cost: The cost of Green Giant Arborvitae varies depending on the size of the tree, the quantity purchased, and the retailer.
  • Smaller Trees (1-3 feet tall): Typically range from $20 to $50 each.
  • Medium Trees (3-5 feet tall): Typically range from $50 to $100 each.
  • Larger Trees (5+ feet tall): Can range from $100 to several hundred dollars each.
  • Bulk Discounts: Many nurseries offer discounts for purchasing multiple trees.

When choosing a retailer, consider the following:

• Plant Quality: Look for trees with healthy, green foliage and a well-developed root system. Avoid trees with signs of disease or damage.
• Size and Age: Choose trees that are the right size for your needs and budget. Younger trees are less expensive but will take longer to reach their mature size.
• Shipping Costs: If ordering online, factor in shipping costs, which can be significant for larger trees.
• Guarantee: Look for retailers that offer a guarantee on their plants.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Green Giant Arborvitae

• How far apart should I plant Green Giant Arborvitae for a privacy screen?
  For a dense privacy screen, plant trees 5-8 feet apart. If you want a quicker screen, you can plant them closer (4-5 feet), but they will require more pruning in the long run. If you want a more open, informal hedge, you can plant them farther apart (8-10 feet).
• How fast does Green Giant Arborvitae really grow?
  Under ideal conditions (full sun, well-drained soil, adequate water), Green Giant Arborvitae can grow up to 3-5 feet per year. However, growth rates can vary depending on climate, soil conditions, and care.
• Is Green Giant Arborvitae deer-resistant?
  Generally, yes. Green Giant Arborvitae is considered deer-resistant, meaning that deer are less likely to browse on it than other plants. However, young trees may be vulnerable to browsing in areas with high deer populations. Consider using deer repellent or fencing to protect young trees.
• Can Green Giant Arborvitae grow in shade?
  Yes, it can tolerate partial shade (4-6 hours of sunlight per day), but growth will be slower and the foliage less dense. For best results, plant in full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day).
• Does Green Giant Arborvitae need to be pruned?
  Minimal pruning is required. Prune only to remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches, or to maintain a desired size and shape. Avoid shearing the entire tree.
• What is the best fertilizer for Green Giant Arborvitae?
  A balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for evergreens is best. Apply in the spring, following the package instructions. Mature trees generally do not require fertilization unless they show signs of nutrient deficiency.
• How long does Green Giant Arborvitae live?
  With proper care, Green Giant Arborvitae can live for 50-60 years or longer.
• Can Green Giant Arborvitae be grown in containers? Yes, but only for limited of time.