This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
You can grow arborvitae in a pot, and it’s a fantastic way to enjoy these evergreen trees even if you don’t have a big yard.
Many gardeners want to know if you can grow arborvitae in a pot because they love the vertical green structure arborvitae provides.
Yes, you can grow arborvitae in a pot as long as you pick the right variety and give it proper care.
Container gardening with arborvitae is totally doable, and it opens up options for patios, balconies, and entryways.
In this post, we’ll cover why you can grow arborvitae in a pot, the best varieties to choose, and how to keep your potted arborvitae thriving for years.
Let’s dig in.
Why You Can Grow Arborvitae in a Pot
Arborvitae are surprisingly adaptable, and that adaptability is the main reason you can grow arborvitae in a pot.
These evergreens don’t demand deep, sprawling root systems like many trees do.
Instead, they develop a fibrous root ball that stays compact, which makes them perfect candidates for containers.
Here’s a closer look at why growing arborvitae in a pot works so well.
1. Arborvitae Have Naturally Shallow Root Systems
When you grow arborvitae in a pot, you’re working with a plant that has a shallow, fibrous root structure.
Unlike oaks or pines that send taproots deep into the ground, arborvitae spread their roots horizontally near the surface.
This means the roots can thrive in a confined container space without becoming root-bound too quickly.
That shallow root habit is exactly why you can grow arborvitae in a pot with success.
2. Many Varieties Stay Naturally Small
Another big reason you can grow arborvitae in a pot is the availability of dwarf and compact cultivars.
These varieties max out at manageable sizes, often reaching just 3 to 6 feet tall instead of 20 or 30 feet.
When you grow arborvitae in a pot using a dwarf type, the plant stays proportional to its container.
That means less pruning and a healthier, happier tree for years to come.
3. Pots Offer Flexibility for Sun and Shelter
When you grow arborvitae in a pot, you can move the container to chase the sun or dodge harsh weather.
Arborvitae need full sun for best growth, but a pot lets you shift the tree if a corner of your patio gets too much shade.
You can also roll it under an overhang during extreme winter winds or heavy snow.
That mobility is a huge advantage when you grow arborvitae in a pot compared to planting in the ground.
Choosing the Right Arborvitae Variety for a Pot
Not every arborvitae is suited to container life, so choosing the right variety is key when you grow arborvitae in a pot.
Stick with slower-growing, compact types that naturally stay smaller.
Here are the best options for growing arborvitae in a pot.
1. Emerald Green Arborvitae
Emerald Green is a classic choice when you want to grow arborvitae in a pot.
It stays narrow, reaches about 10 to 12 feet tall in the ground, but grows much slower in a container.
With occasional pruning, you can easily keep Emerald Green at 4 to 6 feet tall in a pot.
Its bright green foliage stays vibrant all year, making it a great focal point.
2. Mr. Bowling Ball Arborvitae
If you want a truly compact option when you grow arborvitae in a pot, Mr. Bowling Ball is perfect.
This globe-shaped dwarf arborvitae reaches only 2 to 3 feet tall and wide.
It requires almost no pruning and keeps a neat, rounded shape naturally.
That makes it ideal for small pots on a balcony or flanking a front door.
3. Rheingold Arborvitae
Rheingold offers golden-yellow foliage that shifts to bronze in winter, adding seasonal interest.
It stays compact, usually topping out around 4 to 5 feet tall.
When you grow arborvitae in a pot, Rheingold’s moderate growth rate means fewer repotting chores.
And its unique color really pops against a neutral patio or deck.
4. Little Giant Arborvitae
Little Giant is another dwarf globe variety that works beautifully when you grow arborvitae in a pot.
It matures at 3 to 4 feet tall with a dense, mounded shape.
This variety handles container life exceptionally well and stays full and lush.
It’s an excellent choice for symmetry in paired pots.
How to Successfully Grow Arborvitae in a Pot
Getting the planting and care right is essential when you grow arborvitae in a pot.
Follow these steps to keep your container arborvitae healthy and thriving.
1. Pick a Large Pot With Drainage
When you grow arborvitae in a pot, container size matters a lot.
Choose a pot that’s at least 18 to 24 inches wide and deep for most dwarf varieties.
Make sure the container has drainage holes because arborvitae hate soggy roots.
A pot that’s too small will dry out fast and restrict root growth when you grow arborvitae in a pot.
2. Use Well-Draining Potting Mix
Standard garden soil is too heavy when you grow arborvitae in a pot.
Instead, use a high-quality potting mix designed for containers.
Mix in some perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage further.
Good drainage prevents root rot, which is the most common killer of arborvitae in pots.
3. Water Consistently But Don’t Drown
Arborvitae in pots dry out faster than those in the ground.
Water deeply whenever the top inch of soil feels dry.
In hot summer weather, you may need to water daily when you grow arborvitae in a pot.
But always let excess water drain away, never let the pot sit in a saucer full of water.
4. Fertilize Lightly in Spring
When you grow arborvitae in a pot, nutrients wash out faster than in ground soil.
Apply a slow-release evergreen fertilizer once in early spring.
Avoid over-fertilizing because too much nitrogen can burn the roots.
A light feeding supports healthy green growth without stressing the plant.
5. Protect From Harsh Winter Conditions
Potted arborvitae roots are more exposed to cold than in-ground roots.
When you grow arborvitae in a pot in a cold climate, wrap the pot with burlap or insulating material.
You can also move the pot to a sheltered spot near the house.
Water lightly during winter thaws if the soil is dry, but avoid waterlogging.
So, Can You Grow Arborvitae in a Pot?
Yes, you can grow arborvitae in a pot, and it’s a wonderful option for small spaces and container gardens.
When you grow arborvitae in a pot, you gain the flexibility to move the tree, control its environment, and enjoy evergreen beauty anywhere.
You can grow arborvitae in a pot successfully by picking the right compact variety, using a large pot with drainage, and giving consistent care.
Whether you choose Emerald Green, Mr. Bowling Ball, Rheingold, or Little Giant, growing arborvitae in a pot is rewarding and surprisingly easy.
So grab a pot, pick your favorite arborvitae, and start creating your own portable evergreen display today.