How Fast Do Arborvitae Grow

If you’re planning a hedge or a new landscape feature, a common question is how fast do arborvitae grow. The answer isn’t simple, as arborvitae growth rates vary significantly by species, from a few inches to over three feet per year. Understanding this range is key to setting realistic expectations for your garden’s timeline.

This guide will break down the growth speeds of popular arborvitae types. We’ll look at what affects their growth and how you can help them reach their full potential. You’ll learn to choose the right variety for your needs, whether you want a quick screen or a slow-growing specimen.

Arborvitae, or *Thuja*, are coniferous evergreens prized for their dense, scale-like foliage and versatile forms. Their growth rate is primarily determined by their genetic species and cultivar. Generally, you can categorize them into three speed groups: slow, moderate, and fast.

Slow-growing varieties often add less than 12 inches of height per year. Moderate growers typically put on 1 to 2 feet annually. The fastest-growing types can soar, adding 3 feet or more each year under ideal conditions. This wide range means selecting the correct type for your project’s timeline is crucial.

Growth Rates Of Common Arborvitae Varieties

To make an informed choice, you need to know the specific growth habits of popular cultivars. Here’s a detailed look at some of the most common arborvitae and what you can expect from them.

Emerald Green Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’)

This is one of the most popular hedge plants in North America. The Emerald Green arborvitae has a moderate growth rate.

Annual Growth Rate: Approximately 12 to 18 inches per year in height.
Mature Size: Reaches about 12-15 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide.
Growth Pattern: It maintains a tight, narrow pyramid shape with minimal pruning. It’s known for retaining its rich green color even in winter.

Green Giant Arborvitae (Thuja standishii x plicata ‘Green Giant’)

As the name implies, this is a champion grower. The Green Giant is the go-to for a rapid, tall screen.

Annual Growth Rate: A fast 3 to 5 feet per year when young and established.
Mature Size: Can grow 40-60 feet tall and 12-20 feet wide.
Growth Pattern: It grows in a broad pyramidal form. It’s also notably resistant to deer browsing and many common diseases.

American Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis)

Also known as the Eastern White Cedar, this is the native species. Its growth can vary based on the specific cultivar.

Annual Growth Rate: Generally moderate, around 1 to 2 feet per year.
Mature Size: Wild trees can reach 40-60 feet, but landscape cultivars are often smaller.
Common Cultivars: ‘Nigra’ (Dark American) is slower, adding 6-9 inches yearly. ‘Techny’ (Mission) grows about 1 foot per year and is very cold-hardy.

Pyramidal Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Pyramidalis’)

This variety is favored for its consistent, columnar shape without excessive width.

Annual Growth Rate: Moderate, roughly 1 to 2 feet per year.
Mature Size: Grows to 20-30 feet tall but only 5-8 feet wide.
Growth Pattern: Its dense, upright habit makes it excellent for narrow screens where lateral space is limited.

Dwarf Globe Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Danica’)

For slow growth and small spaces, dwarf cultivars are perfect. ‘Danica’ is a popular spherical form.

Annual Growth Rate: Very slow, often less than 3 inches per year.
Mature Size: Typically matures at 1-2 feet tall and wide.
Growth Pattern: It forms a neat, compact ball, ideal for foundation plantings or low borders.

Factors That Influence Arborvitae Growth Speed

Even within a variety, your arborvitae’s actual growth can be faster or slower based on its environment and care. These factors play a huge role in determining the annual growth increment.

Sunlight Exposure

Sunlight is the primary engine for plant growth. Arborvitae thrive in full sun to partial shade.

Full Sun (6+ hours): Promotes the densest foliage and maximum growth rate.
Partial Shade (4-6 hours): Growth may slow slightly, and foliage can become less dense.
Full Shade: Not recommended. Growth will be significantly stunted, and plants will become thin and leggy as they stretch for light.

Soil Quality and Drainage

Arborvitae prefer moist, well-drained soil. Poor soil conditions are a major limiter of growth.

Ideal Soil: Fertile, loamy soil that retains moisture but doesn’t stay soggy.
Drainage is Critical: Waterlogged soil leads to root rot, which can halt growth and kill the plant. If you have heavy clay, consider raising the planting bed.
Soil pH: They tolerate a range but prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0 to 8.0).

Watering Practices

Consistent moisture, especially for young plants, is non-negotiable for good growth. Under-watering is a common cause of slow growth and browning.

First Year: Water deeply 1-2 times per week, depending on rainfall. The goal is to keep the root ball moist but not saturated.
Established Plants: Water during prolonged dry spells. A deep soaking every 1-2 weeks is better than frequent light sprinklings.
Winter Watering: Water evergreens deeply in late fall before the ground freezes to prevent winter desiccation.

Climate and Hardiness Zone

Your USDA Hardiness Zone dictates which arborvitae will grow best and most vigorously.

Match the Plant: Ensure the variety is rated for your zone. A plant struggling to survive cold or heat won’t put energy into growth.
Seasonal Impact: Growth occurs primarily in spring and early summer. In very hot climates, growth may pause in peak summer heat.

Fertilization and Nutrients

While not heavy feeders, arborvitae benefit from proper nutrition. A lack of key nutrients can slow growth.

When to Fertilize: Early spring, as new growth begins, is the best time.
What to Use: A balanced, slow-release fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 or a formula for evergreens) is effective.
Caution: Avoid over-fertilizing, especially with high-nitrogen formulas late in the season, as this can force tender new growth that may not harden off before winter.

How To Maximize Your Arborvitae Growth Rate

You can’t change a plant’s genetic potential, but you can ensure it reaches that potential. Follow these steps for the healthiest, fastest-growing arborvitae.

Step 1: Select the Right Variety for Your Goal

Be honest about your needs. If you need a 6-foot privacy screen in 2 years, a slow-growing dwarf won’t work. Choose a fast or moderate grower like ‘Green Giant’ or ‘Emerald Green’. For a low-maintenance focal point, a slower variety might be perfect.

Step 2: Plant Correctly

Proper planting sets the foundation for a lifetime of good growth.

Planting Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper. The top of the root ball should be level with or slightly above the surrounding soil.
Soil Amendment: Mix some compost into the native soil you’ll use to backfill the hole. This improves drainage and provides nutrients.
Watering In: After placing the plant, backfill halfway, water thoroughly to settle soil, then finish backfilling and water again.

Step 3: Implement a Consistent Watering Schedule

As mentioned, water is critical. Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation for the first few seasons to ensure deep, consistent moisture. Mulching helps retain this moisture.

Step 4: Apply Mulch

A 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch (shredded bark, wood chips) around the base of the plant is incredibly beneficial.

Conserves soil moisture.
Regulates soil temperature.
Suppresses weeds that compete for water and nutrients.
Important: Keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.

Step 5: Prune Strategically

Pruning doesn’t inherently make arborvitae grow taller faster, but it encourages denser foliage. For hedges, a light trim in early summer after the main growth spurt can promote bushiness. Avoid cutting back into old, brown wood, as it may not regenerate.

Common Problems That Stunt Arborvitae Growth

Even with good care, problems can arise. Identifying and adressing these quickly is key to maintaining growth.

Pest Infestations

Bagworms, spider mites, and scale insects can drain a plant’s energy.

Bagworms: Look for cone-shaped bags hanging from branches. Hand-pick or use appropriate insecticides.
Spider Mites: Cause foliage to look speckled or bronzed. A strong spray of water or miticides can help.

Disease Issues

Fungal diseases are often linked to wet conditions or poor air circulation.

Root Rot: Caused by poor drainage. Symptoms include stunted growth, browning, and dieback. Improving drainage is the only solution.
Tip Blight: Causes the tips of branches to turn brown and die back. Prune affected areas and ensure good air flow between plants.

Environmental Stress

Winter burn from drying winds, salt spray from roads, or damage from heavy snow can damage foliage and slow subsequent growth. Use burlap screens for winter protection in exposed areas and brush heavy snow off gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the fastest growing arborvitae for privacy?

The ‘Green Giant’ arborvitae is widely considered the fastest-growing variety for privacy screens and hedges. It can grow 3 to 5 feet per year under optimal conditions, quickly forming a dense, tall barrier.

How can I make my arborvitae grow thicker?

To encourage thicker growth, ensure your arborvitae gets full sun, consistent water, and an annual spring fertilizer. Lightly shearing the tips of new growth in early summer can also stimulate branching and create a denser habit.

Why is my newly planted arborvitae not growing?

Newly planted arborvitae often focus energy on establishing their root system for the first year or two. Above-ground growth may seem slow during this period. Ensure it is receiving adequate water—this is the most common cause of stalled growth in new plants.

How long does it take for arborvitae to reach full size?

The time to maturity depends entirely on the variety. A fast-growing ‘Green Giant’ may reach its near-mature height in 10-15 years. A slow-growing dwarf like ‘Danica’ may take 10 years to reach just 2 feet tall. Always check the mature size listed for your specific cultivar.

Do arborvitae grow faster in sun or shade?

Arborvitae grow significantly faster in full sun. While some varieties tolerate partial shade, their growth rate, density, and overall health will be maximized with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. In full shade, growth is very poor.