A Comprehensive Guide to 6-Foot Arborvitae for Sale Near You
Arborvitae trees, particularly the 6-foot varieties, are increasingly popular for homeowners looking to enhance privacy, create natural barriers, or add a touch of greenery to their landscapes. These evergreen trees are known for their dense foliage, adaptability to various climates, and relatively low maintenance requirements. In this guide, we’ll explore the various types of 6-foot arborvitae available for purchase, their ideal applications, and essential care tips to ensure they thrive in your garden.
Comparison of 6-Foot Arborvitae Types and Applications
| Type | Height | Sun Exposure | Best Uses | Growth Zones |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emerald Green Arborvitae | 5-6 ft | Full sun (6-8 hours) | Privacy screen, specimen planting | 3-8 |
| Green Giant Arborvitae | 5-6 ft | Full sun | Windbreak, tall privacy hedge | 3-7 |
| American Arborvitae | 5-6 ft | Full sun to partial shade | Natural barrier, wildlife habitat | 3-7 |
| Techny Arborvitae | 5-6 ft | Full sun to partial shade | Formal hedges, borders | 3-7 |
Understanding Arborvitae
Arborvitae, a member of the cypress family, is known for its conical shape, soft foliage, and impressive resilience. The most common varieties include Emerald Green, Green Giant, American, and Techny arborvitae, each offering unique characteristics suitable for different landscaping needs.
Emerald Green Arborvitae
Emerald Green Arborvitae is one of the most sought-after varieties, renowned for its lush green foliage and upright growth habit. This variety typically reaches heights of 5-6 feet and is ideal for creating a dense privacy screen. It thrives in full sun and can adapt to various soil types, making it suitable for most landscapes.
Green Giant Arborvitae
The Green Giant Arborvitae is a fast-growing species that can reach impressive heights but can be maintained at 5-6 feet when trimmed. It’s an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a tall privacy hedge or windbreak. This tree is also very adaptable and suitable for a range of soil conditions, thriving in full sun.
American Arborvitae
American Arborvitae offers a more rustic look and is often used in natural settings. Growing to a height of 5-6 feet, it provides excellent coverage and can thrive in partial shade, making it versatile for various garden locations. Its dense foliage also attracts wildlife, providing a habitat for birds and small animals.
Techny Arborvitae
Techny Arborvitae is a compact variety that is perfect for formal hedges or borders. It maintains a height of around 5-6 feet and is well-suited for both sunny and partially shaded areas. Its dense growth habit makes it an excellent choice for creating privacy without taking up too much space.
Planting and Care Tips for 6-Foot Arborvitae
When planting 6-foot arborvitae, there are several essential considerations to ensure healthy growth.
Site Selection
Choose a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. Well-drained soil is crucial for preventing root rot, so consider using amended soil if your native soil retains too much moisture.
Planting Process
- Digging the Hole: Create a hole that is twice as wide and the same depth as the root ball.
- Positioning: Place the tree in the center of the hole, ensuring the root flare is at soil level.
- Backfilling: Fill the hole with a mix of native soil and compost, gently tamping to eliminate air pockets.
- Watering: Water the tree thoroughly after planting, ensuring the soil is moist but not soggy.
Maintenance
- Watering: Newly planted trees should be watered every 3-5 days for the first month. Once established, they need less frequent watering.
- Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting and once yearly in spring to promote healthy growth.
- Pruning: Light pruning can help maintain desired shapes and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Technical Features Comparison of 6-Foot Arborvitae
| Feature | Emerald Green | Green Giant | American Arborvitae | Techny Arborvitae |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Height | 5-6 ft | 5-6 ft (can grow taller) | 5-6 ft | 5-6 ft |
| Width | 3-4 ft | 4-5 ft | 3-4 ft | 3-4 ft |
| Growth Rate | Moderate | Fast | Moderate | Slow |
| Ideal Soil | Well-drained | Well-drained | Moist, well-drained | Well-drained |
| Hardiness Zones | 3-8 | 3-7 | 3-7 | 3-7 |
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Conclusion
6-foot arborvitae varieties are an excellent choice for enhancing privacy, creating natural barriers, and adding beauty to any landscape. With several types available, including the Emerald Green, Green Giant, American, and Techny, homeowners can find the perfect fit for their needs. By following proper planting and care techniques, these trees can thrive and bring lasting value to your property.
FAQ
What is the ideal spacing for planting arborvitae?
The ideal spacing depends on the variety. For Emerald Green Arborvitae, space them 3-4 feet apart for a dense screen. For Green Giant, allow 5-6 feet between each plant to accommodate their larger growth.
How fast do arborvitae grow?
Growth rates vary by species. Green Giant Arborvitae is the fastest, potentially growing up to 3 feet per year, while Emerald Green typically grows 12-24 inches annually.
Can arborvitae tolerate shade?
While most arborvitae prefer full sun, varieties like American Arborvitae can tolerate partial shade, although their growth may slow down.
When is the best time to plant arborvitae?
The best planting times are in early spring or fall when temperatures are mild, which allows the roots to establish before extreme weather conditions.
How do I care for newly planted arborvitae?
Water them consistently for the first month after planting, provide mulch to retain moisture, and avoid fertilizing until after their first growing season.
Are arborvitae deer-resistant?
While no plant is completely deer-proof, arborvitae is generally less palatable to deer compared to other shrubs, making them a good choice for deer-prone areas.
What diseases affect arborvitae?
Common issues include root rot, leaf blight, and bagworms. Regular inspections and proper care can help mitigate these problems.
How tall can arborvitae grow?
Depending on the variety, arborvitae can grow anywhere from 5 feet to over 60 feet. Standard varieties like Emerald Green are typically maintained at 5-6 feet for landscaping purposes.
Can I trim arborvitae?
Yes, light pruning is beneficial for shaping the tree and removing dead branches. However, heavy pruning should be avoided to maintain the tree’s natural shape.
Where can I buy 6-foot arborvitae?
You can find 6-foot arborvitae for sale at various online retailers such as shop.hicksnurseries.com, www.wilsonbrosgardens.com, www.plantingtree.com, and local garden centers like www.lowes.com and www.homedepot.com.