Table of Contents
Arborvitae trees are a popular choice for creating dense, lush privacy screens and hedges in landscapes around the world. Their evergreen foliage provides year-round coverage, making them ideal for homeowners seeking privacy, windbreaks, or aesthetic appeal. With numerous varieties available, selecting the right type can enhance your landscape’s beauty and functionality. This article explores the best arborvitae varieties for dense coverage, highlighting their unique features and benefits.
Understanding Arborvitae Characteristics
Arborvitae, belonging to the genus Thuja, are coniferous trees known for their dense foliage and upright growth habit. They thrive in a variety of soil types and climates, especially in USDA zones 3 through 8. These evergreens are low-maintenance, drought-tolerant once established, and can grow quite tall, making them perfect for privacy hedges or windbreaks. Choosing the right variety depends on growth rate, mature height, width, and foliage density.
Top Arborvitae Varieties for Dense Coverage
1. Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’
Known for its vibrant emerald-green foliage, ‘Smaragd’ is a popular choice for dense privacy screens. It maintains a narrow, columnar shape, reaching about 12-14 feet tall with a spread of 3-4 feet. Its dense foliage provides excellent coverage and requires minimal pruning to keep its shape. It is cold-hardy and adapts well to various soil conditions.
2. Thuja plicata ‘Green Giant’
‘Green Giant’ is a fast-growing, tall arborvitae that can reach heights of 50-60 feet, creating a formidable privacy barrier. Its dense, dark green foliage remains lush throughout the year. Its rapid growth rate (up to 3 feet per year) makes it an excellent choice for quick coverage. It tolerates pruning well, allowing for shaping and maintenance.
3. Thuja occidentalis ‘Emerald Green’
This variety features a rich, dark green color and a dense, conical shape. It typically grows to about 10-15 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide. Its dense foliage provides excellent coverage, and it is particularly suitable for smaller spaces or as a foundation planting. It is also hardy and low-maintenance.
4. Thuja occidentalis ‘Hetz Midget’
‘Hetz Midget’ is a dwarf variety that offers dense, bright green foliage in a compact form. Growing to only about 3-4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide, it is perfect for smaller gardens or as a low hedge. Despite its small size, it maintains a dense, bushy appearance, providing good coverage in limited spaces.
Choosing the Right Variety for Your Landscape
When selecting an arborvitae for dense coverage, consider your space, climate, and desired height. Fast-growing varieties like ‘Green Giant’ are ideal for quick privacy, while more compact types like ‘Hetz Midget’ suit smaller areas. Ensure the soil is well-drained and provide adequate watering during establishment. Regular pruning can enhance density and shape, but most varieties maintain their lush appearance with minimal intervention.
Maintenance Tips for Dense Arborvitae Hedges
- Plant in well-drained soil with adequate space for growth.
- Water regularly during dry periods, especially in the first few years.
- Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Prune annually to maintain shape and encourage dense foliage.
- Fertilize in early spring with a balanced evergreen fertilizer.
By selecting the right arborvitae variety and providing proper care, you can create a lush, dense privacy screen that enhances your landscape’s beauty and privacy. Whether you prefer tall, fast-growing trees or compact, low-maintenance shrubs, there is an arborvitae variety suited to your needs.