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How to Grow Arborvitae

Reviewed by MyLocalPlanting Editorial Team Updated Sources
Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis)

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Plant nursery stock — skip years of growing from seed.

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Supplies You'll Need

Watering Can

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Plant Overview

Scientific Name Thuja occidentalis
Category tree
Type Evergreen Tree (nursery stock)
Starting Method Nursery Stock

Growing Requirements

Sun

Full Sun to Light Shade

Water

Moderate; water well first year

Spacing

4 ft apart

Height

12-40 ft

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Companion Planting Guide for Arborvitae

Discover which plants grow well with Arborvitae and which to keep at a distance for a healthier garden →

Seed Saving Guide

Vegetative propagation

Propagate vegetatively, not by seed

Semi-hardwood cuttings root under mist, but hedges are planted from uniform nursery stock for an even screen.

Arborvitae Planting Calendar by Zone

Zone 1a Zone 1b Zone 2a Zone 2b Zone 3a Zone 3b Zone 4a Zone 4b Zone 5a Zone 5b Zone 6a Zone 6b Zone 7a Zone 7b Zone 8a Zone 8b Zone 9a Zone 9b Zone 10a Zone 10b Zone 11a Zone 11b Zone 12a Zone 12b Zone 13a

Arborvitae Planting Calendar by State

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Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Arborvitae? +

Plant container-grown or bare-root Arborvitae in early spring, 4 weeks before your last frost date — or in early fall once summer heat breaks. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your location.

Should I start Arborvitae indoors or direct sow? +

Neither — Arborvitae isn't grown from seed at home. Buy a container-grown or bare-root plant from a nursery and plant it outdoors at the right time for your local frost dates.

How much sun does Arborvitae need? +

Arborvitae requires full sun to light shade to thrive.

How far apart should I plant Arborvitae? +

Space Arborvitae plants 48 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.

How much water does Arborvitae need? +

Arborvitae has moderate; water well first year water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

Can you save seeds from Arborvitae? +

Arborvitae is not typically propagated by seed. Semi-hardwood cuttings root under mist, but hedges are planted from uniform nursery stock for an even screen.

About Arborvitae

The classic evergreen privacy screen. Plant container stock in spring or early fall, 3–4 feet apart for a hedge ("Emerald Green") or wider for large types like "Green Giant". Water deeply through the first season and into late fall — winter browning usually traces back to dry roots.

Use the search above or browse by zone or state to find the perfect planting dates for your location.