So, you've decided to grace your property with the stately presence of arborvitae? Excellent choice! These evergreen beauties provide privacy, structure, and a touch of elegance to any landscape. But, before you start digging, there's a crucial question to answer: when's the best time to plant these evergreen champions? Don't worry, we'll get you from garden newbie to arborvitae aficionado in no time. Forget the guesswork, let's dive into the definitive guide.
Arborvitae, like any self-respecting plant, has preferences. They're not overly dramatic, mind you, but a little consideration goes a long way. Their primary need is time - time to establish a robust root system before facing the full brunt of summer heat or the freezing grip of winter. Timing, therefore, revolves around giving those roots a head start and maximizing their chances of survival and spectacular growth.
Consider the local climate. Where do you live? Are you battling scorching summers, or are you more familiar with the polar vortex? Knowing your climate zone is half the battle. Planting in the right season minimizes transplant shock and allows the arborvitae to settle in comfortably, ready to withstand whatever Mother Nature throws its way.
Finally, water is key, especially during the crucial establishment phase. Newly planted arborvitae need consistent moisture to thrive. The timing we suggest will align with periods where the weather cooperates, but be prepared to water your new plants consistently during dry spells, no matter the season.
Generally speaking, the best times to plant arborvitae are spring and fall. These seasons offer the most favorable conditions for root development, with milder temperatures and typically more consistent rainfall or moisture in the soil. They provide a sweet spot, allowing the plant to focus its energy on establishing a strong foundation.
Spring Planting: Typically, spring planting is done after the threat of the last frost has passed. This is generally a great option. Planting arborvitae in spring offers the entire growing season for the roots to establish before winter arrives. This gives the trees a great head start. The soil is usually moist from spring rains, which is ideal for the new plants. However, be ready to water consistently during the warmer months to ensure the young arborvitae don't dry out.
Fall Planting: Fall is another prime time for planting. The cooler temperatures of fall are less stressful on the trees, and the soil is often still warm from the summer. This combination allows the arborvitae to develop their roots even as the top growth slows down. Fall-planted arborvitae have a head start in the spring, ready to take off with vigorous growth. Just make sure to plant early enough in the fall (at least 6 weeks before the ground freezes) to allow root establishment before winter sets in.
While spring and fall are your friends, summer and winter are, well, less so. Planting arborvitae in the heat of summer can be tricky. The intense sun and heat can quickly dry out the soil, leading to stress and potential failure for the newly planted arborvitae. They need extra care and consistent watering to survive.
Winter planting, on the other hand, presents its own set of challenges. Frozen ground makes digging difficult or impossible. Even if you manage to plant, the roots may struggle to establish before the winter cold sets in, which is often the kiss of death for vulnerable young plants. However, in regions with mild winters, and if the ground isn't frozen, planting late fall is possible.
Regardless of when you choose to plant, there are some critical steps to ensure your arborvitae thrives:
So, the answer to "when is the best time to plant arborvitae?" is: spring and fall, hands down. These seasons provide the ideal conditions for root establishment, minimizing stress and maximizing the chances of success. By following these simple guidelines, you'll be well on your way to enjoying lush, vibrant arborvitae for years to come. Now, get planting!
Planting arborvitae in winter is generally not recommended. The frozen ground and cold temperatures make it difficult for the roots to establish. However, in regions with mild winters, and if the ground isn't frozen, it may be possible to plant in late fall.
The growth rate of arborvitae depends on the variety and growing conditions. Some, like the Green Giant, can grow several feet per year, while others have slower growth rates. Generally, expect your arborvitae to take several years to reach their mature size.
Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil consistently moist. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Protect from harsh winds, and consider a fertilizer designed for evergreens in the spring.