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You can speed up arborvitae growth by providing the right conditions from the start.
These evergreens are popular for privacy screens and need specific care to reach their full height quickly.
If you’ve been wondering how to speed up arborvitae growth, you’re in the right place.
In this post, we’ll cover the best strategies to accelerate arborvitae growth and what to avoid.
Let’s dive in.
How to Speed Up Arborvitae Growth
Speeding up arborvitae growth starts with the basics.
Here are the key steps to help your arborvitae thrive and grow faster.
1. Choose Fast-Growing Arborvitae Varieties
Not all arborvitae grow at the same rate.
If you want to speed up arborvitae growth, pick varieties like Green Giant or Emerald Green.
These cultivars are known for their vigorous growth and can add several feet per year.
Selecting the right type is the first step to accelerating arborvitae growth.
Research your local climate to ensure the variety you choose will thrive in your area.
2. Plant in Well-Draining Soil
Arborvitae prefer soil that drains well but holds some moisture.
To speed up arborvitae growth, amend heavy clay soil with compost or sand.
Good soil structure encourages deep roots, which support faster arborvitae growth.
Test your soil pH and aim for a slightly acidic to neutral range.
Improving soil conditions before planting gives your arborvitae a strong start.
3. Provide Full Sunlight
Arborvitae need at least six hours of direct sunlight daily.
More sunlight directly contributes to speeding up arborvitae growth.
If your arborvitae are shaded, consider trimming nearby branches to let in light.
Without enough sun, arborvitae growth will slow down significantly.
Position your trees in the sunniest spot possible for best results.
4. Water Deeply and Consistently
Consistent moisture is crucial for fast arborvitae growth.
Water deeply once or twice a week, especially during dry spells.
To speed up arborvitae growth, use a soaker hose for even watering.
Avoid shallow watering, which encourages weak roots and slows growth.
Check soil moisture regularly to adjust your watering schedule as needed.
5. Fertilize in Spring and Early Summer
Fertilizer provides essential nutrients for growth.
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for evergreens.
Applying it in early spring helps speed up arborvitae growth during the active season.
A second light feeding in early summer can sustain the momentum.
Always follow label instructions to avoid over-fertilizing your trees.
Best Practices for Faster Arborvitae Growth
Beyond the basics, these practices can further accelerate arborvitae growth.
Mulch Around the Base
Mulch helps retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch like bark chips.
Keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.
Mulching is an easy way to speed up arborvitae growth by improving root conditions.
Refresh the mulch layer each year for continued benefits.
Space Trees Properly
Proper spacing allows air circulation and reduces competition.
Plant arborvitae at least 3-4 feet apart for hedges.
Too close together, they compete for water and nutrients, slowing arborvitae growth.
Follow variety-specific spacing recommendations for best results.
Adequate spacing ensures each tree gets enough resources to grow fast.
Prune Strategically
Pruning encourages bushier growth and can direct energy to new shoots.
To speed up arborvitae growth, prune in early spring before new growth appears.
Remove only dead or damaged branches to avoid stressing the tree.
Light trimming helps shape the tree while promoting faster arborvitae growth.
Avoid heavy pruning, which can set back growth for a season.
Common Mistakes That Slow Arborvitae Growth
Avoid these errors to keep your arborvitae growing at an optimal rate.
Overwatering or Poor Drainage
Too much water can lead to root rot and slow arborvitae growth.
Ensure your soil drains excess water, especially after heavy rain.
If you notice yellowing leaves, reduce watering frequency.
Proper drainage is essential to speed up arborvitae growth.
Plant in raised beds if your soil stays wet for too long.
Neglecting Winter Care
Winter winds and snow can damage arborvitae.
Protect them with burlap wraps or anti-desiccant sprays.
Healthy trees resume growth quickly in spring, helping to speed up arborvitae growth overall.
Winter damage sets them back, so prevention is key.
Mulch around the base before the first frost to protect roots.
Ignoring Pest Problems
Pests like bagworms and spider mites can weaken arborvitae.
Regularly inspect your trees and treat infestations promptly.
Healthy trees are better at maintaining fast arborvitae growth.
Use insecticidal soap or neem oil for organic control.
Early detection prevents pests from slowing your arborvitae growth.
So, How Can You Speed Up Arborvitae Growth?
You can speed up arborvitae growth by combining all these strategies.
Start with the right variety, plant properly, and provide consistent care.
Remember, patience is still needed, but these steps will maximize your results.
By following the tips above, you’ll see noticeable improvements in how fast your arborvitae grow.
Happy gardening and enjoy your thriving privacy screen.