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You can tie arborvitae branches by using soft, flexible materials like garden twine or stretchable tree tape to gently secure wayward limbs.
Tying arborvitae branches is a simple task that helps maintain a neat shape and prevents breakage from snow or wind.
If you’ve noticed a few branches sticking out or sagging, learning how to tie arborvitae branches will keep your tree looking full and balanced.
In this post, I’ll walk you through why and when you need to tie arborvitae branches, the best techniques to use, and a few pro tips to avoid damaging the bark.
Let’s dig in so your arborvitae stays healthy and beautiful all year.
Why You Should Tie Arborvitae Branches
Tying arborvitae branches isn’t always necessary, but it can make a big difference in the plant’s appearance and health.
Here are the main reasons to learn how to tie arborvitae branches properly.
1. Prevent Snow and Ice Damage
Heavy snow or ice can cause arborvitae branches to splay outward or even snap.
When you tie arvitae branches gently together before winter, you reduce the risk of breakage.
This is especially important in regions with heavy snowfall because tied branches support each other.
2. Maintain a Compact, Formal Shape
If you want a dense, upright hedge, tying arborvitae branches helps train growth in a tidy column.
Loose or unruly branches can ruin the uniform look of a privacy screen.
By regularly tying arborvitae branches, you encourage them to grow closer to the trunk for a full silhouette.
3. Protect Against Strong Winds
Wind can whip arborvitae branches and cause them to rub against each other, damaging the bark.
Knowing how to tie arborvitae branches correctly adds stability and reduces wind-induced stress.
Tied branches stay put, so the tree remains upright even during storms.
4. Correct Uneven Growth After Planting
Young arborvitae often have a few branches that grow sideways instead of upward.
Tying those wayward branches to the trunk with a loose knot guides them into a better position.
This training only takes a season or two to set the branch permanently.
Best Materials for Tying Arborvitae Branches
Choosing the right material matters a lot when you tie arborvitae branches.
Harsh wire or plastic ties can cut into the bark and cause lasting damage.
Here’s what experienced gardeners recommend.
1. Soft Garden Twine (Jute or Cotton)
Natural jute or cotton twine is gentle on arborvitae bark and decomposes over time.
When you tie arborvitae branches with biodegradable twine, you don’t have to remove it later.
Just make sure it’s thick enough to avoid cutting into the branch.
2. Stretchable Tree Tape or Arborist Tape
Stretchable tree tape expands as the branch grows, so it won’t girdle the bark.
This is ideal if you’re tying arborvitae branches that are still actively growing.
The tape holds firmly but has some give.
3. Soft Nylon Stockings or Fabric Strips
Old pantyhose or soft cloth strips work in a pinch because they’re flexible and soft.
When you tie arborvitae branches with fabric, be sure to remove the tie after a few months.
Fabric doesn’t degrade quickly and can become too tight.
4. Plastic Zip Ties (Only With Padding)
Zip ties are strong but must be padded with rubber or cloth where they touch the bark.
Never use bare zip ties directly against arborvitae branches.
They can cut into the bark as the branch thickens.
Step-by-Step: How to Tie Arborvitae Branches Correctly
Now let’s get into the actual process of tying arborvitae branches.
Follow these steps for a safe, effective tie that won’t harm your plant.
1. Choose the Right Time of Year
The best time to tie arborvitae branches is in late fall before the first snowfall or in early spring before growth starts.
Avoid tying when the branches are frozen or brittle because they can snap easily.
Tying in mild weather lets you handle each branch without extra stress.
2. Gather Your Materials and Tools
You’ll need your chosen tie material, a pair of scissors, and optional gloves.
For taller arborvitae, a step stool or ladder is necessary.
Have everything ready before you start to tie arborvitae branches efficiently.
3. Identify Which Branches Need Tying
Look for branches that are sticking out more than 6 inches from the main body of the tree.
Also check for branches that cross or rub against each other.
Only tie the branches that truly need correction—over-tying can make the tree look unnatural.
4. Form a Loose Loop Around the Branch
Wrap your tie material around the branch you want to secure, leaving about an inch of slack.
For arborvitae branches, a figure-eight loop works well because it distributes pressure.
Pull the ends gently until the branch is held in the desired position.
Never tighten so much that the branch is forced flat against the trunk.
5. Attach the Tie to a Main Stem or Stake
Anchor the loose end to a nearby central leader or a sturdy bamboo stake placed behind the tree.
If you’re using a stake, drive it into the ground before tying.
Tie arborvitae branches with a slip knot so you can adjust tension later.
6. Check Tension and Adjust
After tying, the branch should still be able to move slightly when you tug it.
If it’s too tight, loosen the knot immediately.
Check the ties once a month and loosen them as the branch grows.
7. Remove Ties After the Branch Sets
Most branches set in their new position after one full growing season.
When you find a branch staying in place without the tie, remove the material so it doesn’t cut into the bark.
For permanent winter protection, you can leave ties in place but check them each spring.
Common Mistakes When Tying Arborvitae Branches
Even a simple task can go wrong if you’re not careful.
Here are the biggest mistakes people make when they tie arborvitae branches.
1. Tying Too Tightly
Tight ties cut off the flow of water and nutrients through the branch.
This can kill the branch above the tie or cause dieback.
Always leave a finger’s width of space between the tie and the branch.
2. Using Wire or Unpadded Material
Bare wire, twist ties, or nylon string will slice into the bark as the branch thickens.
When you tie arborvitae branches, soft materials are non-negotiable.
3. Forcing Branches Into Unnatural Positions
Don’t bend a branch more than 45 degrees from its original angle.
Extreme bending stresses the wood and can cause it to crack.
Instead, tie arborvitae branches gradually over several weeks.
4. Leaving Ties on Too Long
If you forget to check or remove ties, they can girdle the branch and kill it.
Set a reminder every few months to inspect and loosen each tie.
So, How to Tie Arborvitae Branches?
You can tie arborvitae branches by using soft materials, making loose loops, and securing them to a stable structure.
Tying arborvitae branches helps prevent winter damage, corrects unruly growth, and maintains a tidy hedge.
Just remember to check ties regularly, use gentle pressure, and never cut into the bark.
With these simple techniques, your arborvitae will stay healthy and beautifully shaped for years.
Now you have everything you need to tie arborvitae branches with confidence.