Evergreen Shrub – Highlight Arborvitae

Highlights arborvitae

Botanical name: thuja occidentalis ‘janed gold’ 

Beginner friendly?: yes

Average size at maturity: about 8 ft in height with a spread of about 4 ft 

Hardy zone: zones 5-8 

Foliage color: green, yellow 

Growth rate: grows 12-18 inches per year 

Pruning instructions: prune in the late spring/early fall to maintain desired shape and size 

Propagation methods: propagate with a new growth cutting in the fall and winter months 

Landscape use: hedge, privacy plant, background planting, specimen plant

Special features: dramatic foliage, low maintenance, benefits wildlife 

Light needs: 4-6 hours of sun per day 

Watering instructions: allow the top 2 inches of soil to dry between watering sessions 

Fertilizing instructions : use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer, or a high in nitrogen fertilizer, once a year in the early spring 

Best time to plant: spring or fall

Best type of soil: loam 

Companion plants: lavender, hydrangeas, dogwoods

Toxicity level: toxic for humans and pets if ingested 

Invasive species: no