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Green Giant Arborvitae typically takes 10 to 15 years to reach its full mature height of 50 to 60 feet.
This fast-growing evergreen is one of the most popular choices for privacy screens and windbreaks.
But exactly how long does Green Giant Arborvitae take to grow depends on several factors you can control.
In this post, we’ll break down the growth timeline, the key factors that influence how long Green Giant Arborvitae takes to grow, and how to help your trees thrive.
Let’s dig in.
How Long Does Green Giant Arborvitae Take To Grow
Green Giant Arborvitae grows at a rate of 3 to 5 feet per year under ideal conditions.
That means how long Green Giant Arborvitae takes to grow from a small sapling to a full-sized tree is surprisingly short compared to other evergreens.
Here’s a closer look at the growth timeline.
1. First Year: Establishment Phase
During the first year after planting, your Green Giant Arborvitae focuses on root establishment rather than upward growth.
You might only see 6 to 12 inches of new top growth during this period.
This is completely normal and essential for long-term health.
The tree is building a strong root system that will support rapid growth in subsequent years.
So if you’re wondering how long Green Giant Arborvitae takes to grow in year one, keep your expectations modest.
2. Years Two to Five: Rapid Growth Kicks In
Once the roots are established, your Green Giant Arborvitae will start putting on 3 to 5 feet of new growth each year.
By the end of year five, a healthy tree can easily reach 15 to 20 feet tall.
This is when you really see why it’s called a fast grower.
Many homeowners plant Green Giant Arborvitae for privacy screens, and by year three, they already have a solid visual barrier.
3. Years Five to Fifteen: Reaching Mature Height
Growth continues at a steady pace during this period, though it may slow slightly as the tree approaches its maximum height.
How long Green Giant Arborvitae takes to grow to full maturity depends on soil quality, sunlight, and water availability.
But generally, by year 10 to 15, your tree will stand between 50 and 60 feet tall.
At this stage, the growth rate may taper to 1 to 2 feet per year.
4. Spread and Width Over Time
Green Giant Arborvitae also fills out in width, reaching 12 to 15 feet wide at maturity.
The spread happens gradually alongside the height growth.
So when you ask how long Green Giant Arborvitae takes to grow into a full privacy screen, expect about 5 to 7 years for a dense, wide hedge.
Factors That Affect How Long Green Giant Arborvitae Takes To Grow
How long does Green Giant Arborvitae take to grow in your specific yard?
The answer varies based on several key conditions.
Here are the most important factors.
1. Sunlight Exposure
Green Giant Arborvitae thrives in full sun, meaning at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
If you plant them in partial shade, how long Green Giant Arborvitae takes to grow will increase significantly.
The trees will still survive but with slower, leggier growth.
2. Soil Quality and Drainage
These evergreens prefer well-drained, loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
Poor soil or compacted clay can slow down how long Green Giant Arborvitae takes to grow by restricting root development.
Amending the soil with compost before planting gives them a strong head start.
3. Watering Consistency
Regular watering, especially during the first two years, is critical for fast growth.
Green Giant Arborvitae needs about 1 to 2 inches of water per week.
Drought stress will stall growth and make the tree more susceptible to pests.
Consistent moisture is one of the easiest ways to speed up how long Green Giant Arborvitae takes to grow.
4. Spacing Between Trees
If you’re planting a hedge or screen, spacing matters.
For a dense privacy wall, space trees 5 to 6 feet apart.
Tighter spacing can lead to competition for nutrients, which may slow how long Green Giant Arborvitae takes to grow overall.
Proper spacing allows each tree to reach its full potential.
5. Fertilization and Mulching
Applying a slow-release fertilizer formulated for evergreens in early spring can boost growth.
Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Both practices directly influence how long Green Giant Arborvitae takes to grow by providing steady nutrition and protection.
Tips To Help Your Green Giant Arborvitae Grow Faster
If you want to minimize how long Green Giant Arborvitae takes to grow and enjoy a mature screen sooner, follow these tips.
1. Plant at the Right Time
Early spring or fall is ideal for planting Green Giant Arborvitae.
These seasons give the roots time to establish before extreme heat or cold arrives.
Planting at the right time directly affects how long Green Giant Arborvitae takes to grow in the first year.
2. Water Deeply and Less Frequently
Deep watering encourages roots to grow deeper into the soil.
Shallow, frequent watering leads to weak root systems.
A deep soak once or twice a week is better than light daily watering.
This approach shortens how long Green Giant Arborvitae takes to grow by building a sturdy foundation.
3. Prune Strategically
Green Giant Arborvitae doesn’t require heavy pruning, but light trimming in early spring can encourage denser branching.
Avoid cutting into old wood, as this can leave bare spots.
Strategic pruning helps the tree look fuller while it’s still growing.
4. Protect from Harsh Winds
Strong winds can dry out the foliage and stress the tree.
If your site is windy, consider a windbreak or burlap wrap during the first winter.
Reducing stress helps you shorten how long Green Giant Arborvitae takes to grow by keeping the tree focused on upward growth.
5. Monitor for Pests and Diseases
Common issues like bagworms or spider mites can slow growth significantly.
Inspect your trees regularly and treat infestations early.
Healthy trees grow faster, so pest control is key to reducing how long Green Giant Arborvitae takes to grow.
So, How Long Does Green Giant Arborvitae Take To Grow?
Green Giant Arborvitae takes 10 to 15 years to reach its full height of 50 to 60 feet.
But you’ll see impressive growth year after year, with 3 to 5 feet per year during the prime growing window.
How long does Green Giant Arborvitae take to grow in your landscape depends on how well you manage sunlight, soil, water, and spacing.
With proper care, you can enjoy a tall, dense privacy screen faster than you might expect.
Hope this post has helped you understand the growth timeline and how to get the most out of your Green Giant Arborvitae trees.