Caring for arborvitae

This evergreen tree prefers a well drained site and plenty of sunshine.

If you want dense foliage make sure not to plant other trees where they will shade this plant. Arborvitae will grow well in full sun but tend to have a more open and ratty appearance when grown in shade. Large trees will also rob needed moisture from plants placed under them.

Once established they don’t usually need any special treatment in terms of water or fertilizer.

After the tree matures a bit you will notice an accumulation of dead foliage on the inside of the plant. This is expected and is like “needle drop” on other evergreens. It may be more noticeable in the fall when this natural process of senescence takes place.