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Arborvitae does grow fast.
Depending on the variety, arborvitae trees can add several feet of height per year.
If you’re wondering, “does arborvitae grow fast?” the short answer is yes.
And that’s one of the biggest reasons gardeners love them for privacy screens.
In fact, arborvitae is one of the fastest-growing evergreens you can plant.
Some types of arborvitae grow fast enough to give you a dense, green wall in just a few years.
The growth rate depends on the variety you choose and the care you provide.
But the common question of “does arborvitae grow fast?” is often followed by “how fast is fast?”
So let’s dig into the details.
Because arborvitae does grow fast, but not all arborvitae varieties grow at the same speed.
In this post, we’ll cover just how fast arborvitae grows, which varieties are the speed champs, and what you can do to encourage faster growth.
Let’s get planting.
Why Arborvitae Grows Fast
There are several reasons why arborvitae grows fast compared to other evergreens.
1. It’s a Naturally Vigorous Grower
Arborvitae is biologically wired to put on height quickly.
Its upright growth habit and dense foliage mean the tree is always reaching for sunlight.
This drive to grow tall is why arborvitae grows fast in the right conditions.
The tree doesn’t waste energy on sprawling out sideways either.
Instead, it focuses on vertical growth, which is perfect for creating privacy screens.
2. Selected Cultivars Are Bred for Speed
Many popular arborvitae varieties have been specially bred for rapid growth.
For example, ‘Green Giant’ arborvitae grows fast with a reputation for adding three to five feet per year.
That’s incredible speed for an evergreen shrub or tree.
‘Emerald Green’ arborvitae grows fast too, though at a more moderate pace.
These cultivars exist precisely because people wanted to know “does arborvitae grow fast?” and then demanded the fastest options.
3. Adaptable Root System
Arborvitae roots spread wide but not overly deep.
This allows the tree to soak up nutrients and moisture from a large area quickly.
An efficient root system is a big part of why arborvitae grows fast once it settles into the soil.
Additionally, the roots don’t mind being planted close together, which makes hedges and rows possible.
How Fast Arborvitae Grows in Different Conditions
Even though arborvitae does grow fast, the actual speed changes based on environment.
1. Sunlight Exposure
Full sun is the best way to ensure arborvitae grows fast.
At least six hours of direct sunlight per day will give you the maximum growth rate.
If you plant arborvitae in partial shade, it will still survive but the growth will slow down.
So for the fastest results, give your arborvitae a sunny spot.
2. Soil Quality and Drainage
Rich, loamy soil that drains well is ideal for arborvitae.
If the soil is too sandy or too heavy with clay, the growth rate will drop.
Amending the soil with compost before planting can help arborvitae grow fast from day one.
Good drainage also prevents root rot, which can kill the tree or stunt its growth entirely.
3. Watering Practices
Consistent moisture is crucial for fast arborvitae growth.
Young trees especially need regular watering during their first two years.
Once established, arborvitae is somewhat drought tolerant, but watering deeply during dry spells keeps the growth rate high.
Remember, arborvitae grows fast only when it has enough water to support that growth.
4. Climate and Hardiness Zone
Most arborvitae varieties thrive in USDA zones 3 through 8.
In these cool to moderate climates, arborvitae grows fast and reliably.
In very hot or very cold extremes, the growth might slow noticeably.
Choosing a variety suited to your specific zone ensures you get the fastest possible growth.
Tips to Help Arborvitae Grow Even Faster
If you want to maximize how fast your arborvitae grows, follow these tips.
1. Plant in Spring or Early Fall
This gives your arborvitae time to establish roots before extreme heat or cold arrives.
Proper establishment in the first year leads to faster growth in the second year and beyond.
Don’t plant in the middle of summer, as the heat stress can slow initial growth.
2. Space Them Correctly
If you plant arborvitae too close together, they will compete for resources and grow slower.
A spacing of three to four feet apart is ideal for a hedge.
This gives each tree enough room to spread its roots and access nutrients.
Proper spacing helps arborvitae grow fast without crowding stress.
3. Mulch Around the Base
A layer of mulch keeps the soil moist and cool.
It also suppresses weeds that would steal nutrients from your arborvitae.
Mulching is a simple but effective way to promote healthy, fast growth.
4. Fertilize Lightly in Spring
A balanced slow-release fertilizer can give your arborvitae a boost.
Don’t overdo it, as too much nitrogen can lead to weak, leggy growth.
A small dose of fertilizer applied in early spring will support a full season of fast growth.
So, Does Arborvitae Grow Fast?
Arborvitae does grow fast.
And for many homeowners, that speed makes it the top pick for creating a living privacy fence.
Whether you choose the lightning-fast ‘Green Giant’ or the tidy ‘Emerald Green,’ you can count on arborvitae to put on noticeable height each year.
The growth rate is impressive when the tree gets full sun, good soil, and consistent water.
In the end, the question “does arborvitae grow fast?” has a clear, positive answer.
Arborvitae grows fast enough to turn your yard into a private oasis faster than almost any other evergreen.
Just pick the right variety, plant it well, and watch it take off.
And that’s exactly what you need to know about why arborvitae grows fast and how to make the most of it.