Emerald Green Arborvitae Privacy Fence Options Explained

Author

Reads 171

A tranquil emerald lake surrounded by lush green hills and rocks under the open sky.
Credit: pexels.com, A tranquil emerald lake surrounded by lush green hills and rocks under the open sky.

If you're looking to add some greenery to your outdoor space while maintaining your privacy, Emerald Green Arborvitae is a popular choice. It's a low-maintenance evergreen that can grow up to 5-6 feet tall.

One option for incorporating Emerald Green Arborvitae into your outdoor space is a hedge. Hedges can be trimmed to maintain a desired height, but they can also be left to grow naturally.

Readers also liked: How Fast Do Arborvitaes Grow

Choosing the Right Arborvitae

Choosing the right Arborvitae for your emerald green arborvitae privacy fence is crucial for a beautiful and functional fence.

Arborvitae trees are evergreen trees that come from right here in America, with some people calling them cedar, but they aren't a real cedar tree.

The one that is the right size for your garden, and the right size and shape for what you need, is key. Let's take a look at the advantages of Arborvitae as a privacy tree choice.

Arborvitae grows in wet ground, not every garden has the magical 'well-drained soil' that so many plants need, but Arborvitae will grow well at the edge of water, and in areas that are frequently flooded.

You might like: Privacy Shower Door

Credit: youtube.com, All About Arborvitaes | Ask This Old House

Here are some key characteristics of Arborvitae:

  • Very Cold Hardy – ideal for cooler zones down to zone 3, but grow well all the way through zone 7.
  • Grows in Wet Ground – Arborvitae will grow well at the edge of water, and in areas that are frequently flooded.
  • Doesn’t Grow Too Large – The most popular variety – Emerald Green – usually tops out around 12 feet or so if left untrimmed.
  • Moderate Growth Rate – this tree will add a respectable 1 to 2 feet a year when young, soon reaching 6 feet, and slow down to 3 to 6 inches once it begins to mature.

Design and Installation

If you're considering installing an Emerald Green Arborvitae privacy fence, you'll want to plant them in a spot with full sun, but they can tolerate a little bit of shade if needed.

They can grow up to 1 foot per year, so you can expect to see a 6-8' tall and 18" wide plant at 10 years old.

Pruning is extremely simple with these slow growers, and can usually be done just lightly once per year to maintain density.

It's best to prune once per year to avoid unsightly browning, and to keep the hedge looking its best.

These natural pillars are perfect for creating low-maintenance hedges that fit perfectly into narrow spaces and small yards.

The hedge is quite drought-resistant once established, but it's still important to provide ample water during the establishment period.

They can also withstand short periods of standing water in winter, but do best in a well-draining soil.

Readers also liked: American Arborvitae Hedge

Varieties and Options

Credit: youtube.com, Top 2 Privacy Screen Trees. Grow A Living Fence. Green Giant vs. Emerald Green Arborvitae Comparison

The Emerald Green Arborvitae is a top choice for a basic privacy and hedge tree, with a dense, upright form and good growth. It stays green all through winter, making it an ideal choice for colder zones.

Plant these trees 4 feet apart for an untrimmed barrier, or 2 to 3 feet apart for a narrow trimmed hedge. For a hedge 5 feet or less, plant them 2 feet apart, and for a taller one, plant them 3 feet apart.

If you want to use arborvitae for striking vertical specimens, or want a screen over 12 feet tall, then the 'DeGroot's Spire' Arborvitae is the tree for you. It rises 15 to 25 feet tall in time, but only 4 or 5 feet tall even at full height, making it an elegant column of green.

For a little less height, and not quite so fast growing, consider the Spring Grove Western Arborvitae, which reaches no more than 20 to 30 feet tall. It's a great option for hedges that won't require frequent trimming.

Credit: youtube.com, Emerald Green arborvitae spacing and planting layout 🌲

Here are some key characteristics of the Emerald Green Arborvitae:

These trees will arrive to you in a 5, 7 or 10 Gal Container or Balled & Burlapped Rootball, and should be watered deeply and regularly during the first growing season to establish an extensive root system.

Benefits and Considerations

The Emerald Green Arborvitae privacy fence is a popular choice for many homeowners. It's a low-maintenance option that provides excellent privacy and wind protection.

This evergreen hedge can thrive in a variety of conditions, including wet ground and cooler zones down to 3. It's ideal for small yards and tight areas, and can be easily trimmed to maintain a desired height.

One of the biggest advantages of Emerald Green Arborvitae is its slow growth rate. It adds only 1 to 2 feet per year when young, and slows down to 3 to 6 inches once it matures. This means you'll only need to trim it once a year to keep it looking neat and tidy.

Credit: youtube.com, Arborvitaes 10 Years Later...What I Wished I Knew Sooner!

Here are some key benefits to consider:

  • Keeps its deep emerald green color throughout the winters
  • Tolerates dry spells once it is established
  • Slow growth rate makes it a preferred hedge
  • Ideal for small yards and other tight areas
  • An especially great shrub for taller privacy hedges or screens

As with any plant, there are some considerations to keep in mind. For example, it's essential to choose a variety that's suitable for your climate and soil type. With proper care, an Emerald Green Arborvitae privacy fence can provide years of beautiful and functional service.

Comparison and Decision

Emerald green arborvitae privacy fences are a popular choice for homeowners, offering year-round greenery and a natural, rustic look. They can grow up to 8-10 feet tall, providing a dense screen for complete privacy.

Their slow growth rate of 3-5 feet per year means they won't require frequent pruning, saving you time and effort. This also allows them to maintain their natural shape and fullness.

One of the biggest advantages of emerald green arborvitae is their ability to thrive in a wide range of soil conditions, making them a great option for areas with poor soil quality. They can even tolerate some drought, although regular watering is still recommended.

Credit: youtube.com, GIANT GREEN or EMERALD GREEN Arborvitae?? WHAT is the BEST Tree for Screening?

In terms of maintenance, emerald green arborvitae are relatively low-maintenance, requiring only occasional watering and fertilization. They're also resistant to many pests and diseases, reducing the need for pesticides and other chemicals.

Their natural, evergreen foliage provides a beautiful backdrop for outdoor living spaces, and can even help to block unwanted views and sounds. Whether you're looking to create a peaceful retreat or simply need a bit more privacy, emerald green arborvitae are a great choice.

Lou Tarchiani

Senior Writer

Lou Tarchiani is a passionate writer, avid traveler, and animal lover. She has a diverse background, having worked in fields ranging from marketing to education. Her travels have taken her to over 20 countries, where she has immersed herself in local cultures and gained unique perspectives on the world.

Love What You Read? Stay Updated!

Join our community for insights, tips, and more.