Emerald Green Arborvitae typically reaches a mature height of ten to fifteen feet. If you are wondering exactly how tall does emerald green arborvitae grow, the answer depends on growing conditions and care. These popular evergreens are a top choice for privacy screens and hedges.
Their narrow, pyramidal shape makes them ideal for tight spaces. Most gardeners choose them for their consistent color and manageable size. Let’s break down the height details and what influences them.
How Tall Does Emerald Green Arborvitae Grow
At full maturity, expect your Emerald Green Arborvitae to stand between 10 and 15 feet tall. The width typically stays between 3 and 4 feet. This compact growth habit is why they are so popular for small yards.
Some specimens may reach 15 feet under ideal conditions. Others might stop at 10 feet if soil or sunlight is less than perfect. The average height is around 12 feet after 10 to 15 years.
Growth Rate Expectations
These trees grow slowly to moderately. You can expect about 6 to 12 inches of new growth each year. In the first few years, growth may be slower as roots establish.
- Year 1-2: 1-2 feet total height
- Year 3-5: 3-5 feet total height
- Year 6-10: 6-10 feet total height
- Year 10+: 10-15 feet total height
Patience is key. They won’t shoot up overnight, but the wait is worth it for a dense, green screen.
Factors That Affect Final Height
Several conditions influence how tall your tree will grow. Sunlight is the most important factor. Full sun (6+ hours daily) promotes maximum height.
Soil quality also matters. Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter supports better growth. Poor soil can stunt height significantly.
- Sunlight: More sun equals more height.
- Water: Consistent moisture, but not soggy roots.
- Spacing: Crowded plants compete and grow shorter.
- Climate: Zones 3-7 are ideal; heat stress limits height.
Comparing Height To Other Arborvitae Varieties
Emerald Green is a dwarf compared to some relatives. The Green Giant arborvitae can reach 50 to 60 feet tall. That is a huge difference for planning your landscape.
Other varieties like Techny arborvitae grow to 15-20 feet. Woodwardii arborvitae stays under 10 feet. Emerald Green sits right in the middle for manageable height.
Why Height Matters For Privacy Screens
A 10 to 15 foot screen blocks most views from neighbors. For single-story homes, this height is perfect. Two-story homes may need taller varieties like Green Giant.
If you plant them too close together, they may not reach full height. Space them 3 to 4 feet apart for a dense hedge. This allows each tree enough resources to grow tall.
How To Maximize Height Growth
Want your Emerald Green to reach the upper end of its range? Follow these steps for best results. Proper care from planting onward makes a big difference.
Planting For Success
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper. Place the tree at the same depth it was in the pot. Backfill with native soil mixed with compost.
Water deeply after planting. Add a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base. Keep mulch away from the trunk to prevent rot.
Ongoing Care Tips
Water regularly during the first two years. Once established, they are somewhat drought tolerant. But consistent moisture encourages steady upward growth.
- Water 1-2 times per week during dry spells.
- Fertilize in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer.
- Prune only to remove dead or damaged branches.
- Avoid heavy pruning that removes the top leader.
Never cut the central leader (the top vertical stem). Doing so stops upward growth permanently. Let the tree grow naturally for maximum height.
Common Mistakes That Limit Height
Overwatering is a frequent problem. Soggy roots lead to root rot and stunted growth. Always check soil moisture before watering.
Planting in too much shade is another error. Less than 4 hours of sun results in sparse, leggy growth. The tree may only reach 8 feet instead of 15.
- Planting too deep (crown below soil line).
- Using too much nitrogen fertilizer (promotes leaves over roots).
- Ignoring pest issues like bagworms or spider mites.
- Failing to protect from winter wind and salt spray.
Real World Height Examples
In a typical suburban yard, most Emerald Greens reach 12 feet. I have seen some in protected spots hit 14 feet. Rarely, under perfect conditions, they can touch 16 feet.
One gardener in Ohio reported his trees reached 13 feet after 12 years. Another in Oregon had them at 15 feet in 10 years due to mild climate. Your results will vary based on local conditions.
Height In Containers
Growing in pots limits root space. Container-grown Emerald Greens usually stay under 8 feet. They may max out at 6-7 feet even with excellent care.
If you need a tall screen in a pot, choose a larger container. Use a 20-gallon pot or bigger for best results. But expect shorter height than in-ground plants.
When To Expect Full Height
It takes about 10 to 15 years to reach maturity. The first few years are slow as roots develop. After year 5, growth speeds up noticeably.
By year 10, most trees are 10-12 feet tall. The final 2-3 feet come in the next 5 years. After that, growth slows to almost nothing.
- Year 5: 4-6 feet tall
- Year 8: 8-10 feet tall
- Year 12: 11-13 feet tall
- Year 15: 13-15 feet tall
Do not expect 15 feet in 5 years. That is unrealistic for this variety. Patience and consistent care are your best tools.
Can You Control Height With Pruning
Yes, but only to keep them shorter than their natural height. You cannot make them grow taller than their genetic limit. Pruning the top will stop upward growth entirely.
To maintain a specific height, trim the top when it reaches your desired level. This encourages lateral branching but stops vertical growth. Many people keep them at 8-10 feet this way.
Shearing For Shape
Light shearing in early summer keeps the shape tidy. Remove no more than one-third of the new growth. Heavy shearing can stress the tree and reduce height potential.
For a natural look, prune individual branches rather than shearing. This preserves the tree’s pyramidal form. It also allows more light to reach lower branches.
Common Height Related Problems
Sometimes trees do not reach expected height. This can be due to disease, pests, or environmental stress. Identifying the issue early helps correct it.
Pests That Stunt Growth
Bagworms can defoliate branches and slow growth. Spider mites cause yellowing and reduced vigor. Both are treatable with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Scale insects suck sap from branches, weakening the tree. Regular inspection and treatment keeps them healthy. Healthy trees grow taller faster.
Disease Issues
Root rot from overwatering is a common cause of stunting. Fungal diseases like tip blight can kill new growth. Proper spacing and air circulation prevent many problems.
If your tree is not growing, check for signs of disease. Yellowing needles, dieback, or cankers on the trunk are red flags. Treat promptly to restore growth.
Landscaping With Height In Mind
Plan your planting based on mature height. Do not place them under power lines or near building overhangs. Allow room for them to reach their full 15 feet.
For a hedge, space them 3-4 feet apart. This creates a solid screen at 10-12 feet tall. Wider spacing results in a more open look with individual trees.
Companion Plants
Low-growing shrubs like boxwood or lavender work well at the base. They do not compete for height and add visual interest. Avoid tall plants that shade the arborvitae.
Perennials like hostas or ferns thrive in the dappled shade underneath. This creates a layered look that enhances your landscape. Keep all plants at least 2 feet from the trunk.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall does emerald green arborvitae grow in 5 years?
After 5 years, expect them to be 4 to 6 feet tall. Growth is slower in the beginning. Proper care can push them closer to 6 feet.
Can emerald green arborvitae reach 20 feet?
No, they typically max out at 15 feet. Some may reach 16 feet in ideal conditions. 20 feet is beyond their genetic capacity.
What is the width of a mature emerald green arborvitae?
Width ranges from 3 to 4 feet at maturity. This narrow spread makes them perfect for tight spaces. They maintain a compact pyramidal shape.
How fast do emerald green arborvitae grow per year?
They grow 6 to 12 inches per year on average. Faster growth occurs with full sun and consistent moisture. Slower growth happens in shade or poor soil.
Do emerald green arborvitae grow taller in shade?
No, they grow taller in full sun. Shade results in leggy, sparse growth and reduced height. Aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Final Thoughts On Height
Knowing how tall emerald green arborvitae grow helps you plan your landscape. At 10 to 15 feet, they are ideal for most residential privacy needs. Their slow to moderate growth rate means patience is required.
Provide full sun, well-draining soil, and consistent water. Avoid common mistakes like overwatering or pruning the top. With proper care, you will enjoy a beautiful green screen for decades.
Remember that each tree is slightly different. Local climate and care practices cause variations. But the range of 10 to 15 feet is a reliable guideline for most gardeners.
If you need a taller screen, consider Green Giant or other varieties. For a compact, elegant hedge, Emerald Green is hard to beat. Their height is just right for many yards.
Start with healthy plants from a reputable nursery. Plant them correctly and care for them consistently. Your reward will be a lush, tall privacy screen that adds value to your home.
Do not rush the process. Enjoy watching them grow year by year. The final height will be worth the wait.