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Arborvitae grows at a moderate rate, typically adding 1 to 2 feet per year once established.
If you’ve been wondering how quickly does arborvitae grow, the answer depends on the specific variety and the care you provide.
Some fast-growing arborvitae cultivars can shoot up 3 to 4 feet annually under ideal conditions.
But most common species like Emerald Green or Green Giant have a steady, predictable growth pattern.
In this post, we’ll break down how quickly does arborvitae grow for different types, what influences that speed, and how to maximize their growth for your landscape.
Let’s dig into the details so you can plan your hedge or privacy screen with confidence.
How Quickly Does Arborvitae Grow Depending on the Variety
The speed at which arborvitae grows varies widely by cultivar.
Some are bred for rapid height gain, while others stay compact and slow.
Here’s how quickly does arborvitae grow for the most popular choices:
1. Emerald Green Arborvitae Growth Rate
Emerald Green arborvitae grows about 1 to 2 feet per year.
If you ask how quickly does arborvitae grow in a narrow, upright form, Emerald Green is a steady performer.
It reaches 12 to 14 feet tall at maturity, which usually takes 10 to 15 years.
This arborvitae maintains a dense, conical shape without much pruning.
Its moderate speed makes it a favorite for formal hedges and foundation plantings.
2. Green Giant Arborvitae Growth Rate
Green Giant arborvitae grows faster than nearly any other variety.
People often ask how quickly does arborvitae grow when they need a tall privacy screen quickly.
Green Giant can shoot up 3 to 4 feet per year in good soil and full sun.
It can reach 40 to 60 feet tall, making it a towering option for large properties.
The rapid growth means you’ll have a substantial hedge in just a few seasons.
3. North Pole Arborvitae Growth Rate
North Pole arborvitae grows about 1 to 2 feet per year as well.
When you want a pillar-like shape that stays narrow, North Pole is a great choice.
It tops out at 10 to 15 feet tall, which it reaches in roughly 10 years.
So how quickly does arborvitae grow in a compact, vertical habit?
North Pole offers reliable moderate speed without overwhelming your landscape.
4. Techny Arborvitae Growth Rate
Techny arborvitae grows at a moderate pace of 1 to 2 feet annually.
It’s a versatile cultivar that adapts to various climates and soils.
Full size is around 15 to 20 feet tall, achieved over 15 to 20 years.
This arborvitae grows dense and dark green, perfect for windbreaks.
Knowing how quickly does arborvitae grow for Techny helps you plan spacing for a thick screen.
Key Factors That Influence How Quickly Does Arborvitae Grow
The variety sets the baseline, but conditions on the ground make a big difference.
To get the fastest possible growth, pay attention to these elements:
1. Sunlight
Arborvitae grows best in full sun, which means at least 6 hours of direct light daily.
In too much shade, growth slows down noticeably and the foliage may thin out.
So how quickly does arborvitae grow in partial shade?
It will still live but add only a few inches per year instead of feet.
2. Soil Quality and Drainage
Well-drained, loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH supports strong growth.
Compacted clay or constantly wet soil can cause root rot, which stunts growth.
If you want to answer “how quickly does arborvitae grow” with top results, amend poor soil with compost before planting.
3. Watering Consistency
Young arborvitae needs regular watering during the first two years.
Once established, they are moderately drought-tolerant, but consistent moisture keeps growth steady.
Without enough water, arborvitae grows slowly and may drop inner needles.
4. Fertilization
A balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied in early spring can boost growth.
Too much nitrogen, however, encourages soft, leggy growth that’s prone to damage.
So how quickly does arborvitae grow with proper feeding?
You might see an extra 6 to 12 inches per year compared to unfertilized plants.
5. Spacing
Crowded arborvitae competes for light and water, slowing each plant’s growth.
Follow spacing guidelines for your specific variety to avoid limiting growth.
For Green Giant, space at least 5 to 6 feet apart; for Emerald Green, 3 to 4 feet works.
How to Maximize How Quickly Does Arborvitae Grow
If you’re impatient for privacy, there are practical steps to speed things up.
Here’s how to encourage your arborvitae to grow as fast as possible:
1. Plant at the Right Time
Spring or early fall gives roots time to establish before extreme temperatures.
Planting in summer heat stresses the tree and slows first-year growth.
2. Mulch and Water
Apply a 2- to 3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base, keeping it off the trunk.
Mulch retains moisture and moderates soil temperature, both key for steady growth.
Water deeply once a week during dry spells, especially in the first two years.
3. Prune for Shape, Not Height
Light pruning in early spring encourages bushier growth but doesn’t speed height gain.
If you want to know how quickly does arborvitae grow upward, avoid cutting the leader (the top central stem).
Removing the leader stunts vertical growth permanently.
4. Protect from Pests and Deer
Deer browsing can strip lower branches and slow overall growth.
Spider mites and bagworms also reduce vigor.
Keeping arborvitae healthy ensures it directs energy into growth instead of defense.
So, How Quickly Does Arborvitae Grow Overall?
How quickly does arborvitae grow depends on the variety, conditions, and care you provide.
Most types add 1 to 2 feet per year once established, with fast growers like Green Giant reaching 3 to 4 feet annually.
If you plant correctly in full sun with good soil and water, your arborvitae will reward you with steady, visible growth each season.
Now you know exactly how quickly does arborvitae grow and what to do to help it thrive.