How To Get Arborvitae Thicker

You can get arborvitae thicker by focusing on proper planting, pruning, and care practices that encourage dense growth.
 
If you’ve been wondering how to get arborvitae thicker, you’re not alone in wanting a dense, lush hedge that provides privacy and beauty.
 
Thicker arborvitae not only look better but also provide better privacy and wind protection for your yard.
 
In this post, we’ll explore the best ways to get arborvitae thicker and maintain that fullness year after year with simple steps.
 
Let’s dive into making your arborvitae thicker starting today, so you can enjoy a fuller landscape.
 

How to Get Arborvitae Thicker

1. Plant Arborvitae in Full Sun

To get arborvitae thicker, sunlight is the most important factor you can provide.
 
Arborvitae thrive in full sun, which encourages dense growth from top to bottom without gaps.
 
Without enough light, your arborvitae may become sparse and leggy, losing their thick appearance.
 
So for the thickest arborvitae, choose a location that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, preferably more.
 
If your area is partially shaded, consider pruning nearby trees to let in more light for thicker growth.
 

2. Space Them Properly

How you space your arborvitae directly affects their thickness and overall fullness.
 
If planted too close, they compete for resources like water and nutrients, which can stunt growth.
 
If too far apart, unsightly gaps remain between plants, creating a sparse look.
 
To get arborvitae thicker, follow spacing guidelines for your specific variety—usually 3 to 4 feet apart for hedges.
 
Proper spacing allows each plant to reach its full potential, resulting in a solid, thick wall of green.
 

3. Prune Correctly for Density

Pruning is a key method to get arborvitae thicker by stimulating bushy growth.
 
By trimming the tips of branches in early spring, you encourage lateral branching, which fills in the plant.
 
Always prune before new growth starts, and never cut into bare wood where no needles exist.
 
Regular, light pruning each year helps maintain a compact shape and promotes thicker arborvitae over time.
 
Avoid heavy pruning that can stress the plant and reduce its thickness.
 

Fertilizing to Make Arborvitae Thicker

1. Use a Balanced Fertilizer

To get arborvitae thicker, fertilize with a balanced formulation like 10-10-10 at the right times.
 
Apply in early spring and again in late summer for continuous growth throughout the season.
 
This provides essential nutrients for lush, thicker arborvitae foliage that stays green and healthy.
 
Over-fertilizing can harm roots and actually reduce thickness, so follow package instructions carefully.
 
A slow-release fertilizer can also be effective for steady nutrient supply for thick growth.
 

2. Don’t Forget Mulch

Mulch around the base helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature for healthier roots.
 
This supports root health, which is vital for thicker arborvitae growth and resilience.
 
Organic mulch like wood chips or bark also adds nutrients as it decomposes over time.
 
Keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot and disease that can thin the plant.
 
A good layer of mulch can make a big difference in how thick your arborvitae become.
 

Watering and Maintenance for Thicker Arborvitae

1. Water Deeply and Infrequently

Deep watering encourages roots to grow deeper, leading to sturdier, thicker arborvitae overall.
 
Water once a week during dry spells, giving the soil a good soak to reach the root zone.
 
Shallow watering leads to weak root systems and sparse foliage that fails to thicken properly.
 
For thick arborvitae, consistent moisture is key, especially in the first two years of establishment.
 
Using a soaker hose can help deliver water efficiently for thicker growth.
 

2. Protect from Winter Burn

Winter winds can dry out arborvitae foliage, causing brown patches that thin the plant.
 
To keep arborvitae thick and green, wrap them in burlap or use an anti-desiccant spray before winter.
 
This prevents moisture loss and maintains dense growth through cold months without damage.
 
Healthy arborvitae are better able to get thicker each season, so winter protection is crucial.
 
Also, remove heavy snow from branches to prevent breakage that can reduce thickness.
 

Seasonal Care for Thicker Arborvitae

1. Spring: Fertilize and Prune

In spring, focus on fertilizing and light pruning to stimulate thicker growth.
 
Apply a balanced fertilizer and trim any winter damage to encourage new shoots.
 
This sets the stage for a full, thick arborvitae throughout the growing season.
 
Spring care is critical to get arborvitae thicker after the dormant winter months.
 
Don’t skip this step if you want the thickest arborvitae possible.
 

2. Summer: Monitor Watering

Summer heat requires consistent deep watering to maintain thickness.
 
Check soil moisture weekly and water during dry periods to prevent stress.
 
Healthy arborvitae in summer will grow thicker and more vigorous.
 
Mulching in summer also helps retain moisture for thicker growth.
 
Pay attention to watering to get arborvitae thicker during hot weather.
 

3. Fall: Prepare for Winter

In fall, apply mulch and wrap arborvitae to protect from winter burn.
 
This ensures they stay thick and healthy through cold months.
 
Proper fall care leads to thicker growth the following spring.
 
Fall is also a good time to apply a slow-release fertilizer for next year’s thickness.
 
Preparing well in fall helps you get arborvitae thicker each season.
 

So, How to Get Arborvitae Thicker?

You can get arborvitae thicker by combining proper sunlight, spacing, pruning, fertilizing, and watering.
 
If you’ve been wondering how to get arborvitae thicker, these methods will help you achieve a dense, healthy hedge.
 
Remember that patience is important, as arborvitae take time to fill out and become thicker.
 
But with consistent care, your arborvitae can become thicker and more beautiful each year.
 
We hope this guide on how to get arborvitae thicker has given you practical steps to transform your landscape.