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Taking care of arborvitae starts with understanding their basic needs for sunlight, soil, and water.
How do you take care of arborvitae so they stay lush and green all year?
It’s easier than you think once you know a few key rules.
Arborvitae are hardy evergreens that thrive with minimal fuss when planted in the right spot.
In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to take care of arborvitae, from planting to pruning and beyond.
Let’s dig in.
How Do You Take Care of Arborvitae – The Basics
How do you take care of arborvitae right from the start?
Here are the essential steps for keeping your arborvitae healthy.
1. Choose the Right Location
Arborvitae need full sun to partial shade to really thrive.
When you take care of arborvitae, pick a spot that gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Too much shade can make them thin and leggy.
Also make sure the soil drains well because arborvitae hate standing water.
Good drainage is critical for taking care of arborvitae properly.
2. Plant at the Correct Depth
Planting depth matters a lot when you take care of arborvitae.
Set the root ball level with the ground surface.
If you bury the trunk too deep, it can rot.
How do you take care of arborvitae after planting?
Water them deeply right away and mulch around the base.
But don’t pile mulch against the stem.
3. Water Consistently the First Year
Newly planted arborvitae need regular watering to establish strong roots.
To take care of arborvitae during their first growing season, give them about 1 inch of water per week.
Deep watering is better than frequent light sprinkles.
Once established, they become more drought tolerant but still appreciate occasional drinks during dry spells.
Key Factors in How to Take Care of Arborvitae All Year
How do you take care of arborvitae through the seasons?
These evergreen shrubs and trees need ongoing attention beyond the first year.
1. Fertilize Sparingly
Arborvitae don’t need heavy feeding.
When you take care of arborvitae, use a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring.
Too much nitrogen can cause weak growth that’s more prone to pests.
A light application is all you need for healthy green foliage.
2. Prune for Shape and Health
How do you take care of arborvitae when they get overgrown?
Prune them in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
Never cut back into brown, leafless wood because arborvitae won’t regrow from bare branches.
Instead, trim just the tips to encourage denser foliage.
Light pruning each year keeps your arborvitae looking tidy.
3. Protect From Winter Burn
Winter wind and sun can dry out foliage and cause browning.
To take care of arborvitae in cold climates, wrap them in burlap or use an anti-desiccant spray.
Water deeply in fall before the ground freezes.
How do you take care of arborvitae after winter damage?
Wait until spring to see which branches bounce back, then prune off dead tips.
Common Problems and How to Take Care of Arborvitae When Issues Arise
Even with good care, arborvitae can face pests and diseases.
Here’s how to take care of arborvitae when trouble shows up.
1. Bagworms and Spider Mites
Bagworms can defoliate entire branches.
Check your arborvitae regularly for small, cone-shaped bags hanging from twigs.
Remove them by hand or use an insecticide labeled for bagworms.
Spider mites cause yellowing and fine webbing.
A strong blast of water or miticide helps control them.
2. Root Rot
Overwatering or poor drainage leads to root rot.
How do you take care of arborvitae with yellowing leaves?
First, check the soil moisture.
Let the top few inches dry out between waterings.
If rot is advanced, you may need to remove the plant and improve drainage before replanting.
3. Browning From Stress
Browning can happen from drought, wind, or salt damage.
To take care of arborvitae showing browning, trim affected tips and ensure consistent watering.
Avoid planting near roads treated with de-icing salt.
How do you take care of arborvitae in containers?
Potted arborvitae need more frequent watering and winter protection than ground-planted ones.
So, How Do You Take Care of Arborvitae?
How do you take care of arborvitae in a nutshell?
Start with the right location and planting depth.
Water consistently the first year, fertilize lightly, prune wisely, and shield them from winter burn.
Keep an eye out for pests and adjust care as needed.
Taking care of arborvitae isn’t complicated once you understand their simple needs.
With these tips, your arborvitae will reward you with beautiful, vibrant greenery for years to come.