Evergreen Shrub – North Pole Arborvitae

North Pole Arborvitae 

Botanical name: thuja occidentalis ‘art boe’

Beginner friendly?: yes 

Average size at maturity: 10-15 ft in height with a 5-7 ft spread 

Hardy zone:  zones 3-7 

Foliage color:  green 

Growth rate:  grows 1-2 ft per year 

Pruning instructions: prune in the early spring before new growth emerges for the season to maintain desired shape and size 

Propagation methods:  propagate with cuttings in the late fall/early winter 

Landscape use:  specimen/accent for narrow spaces, foundation planting, privacy plant, windbreak 

Light needs:  4-6 hours of sun per day 

Special features: narrow and columnar shape, low maintenance, adaptable to poor soil 

Watering instructions: water when the top 2 inches of soil have dried out 

Fertilizing instructions :  use a slow-release, high-nitrogen granular fertilizer once a year in the early spring before new growth emerges 

Best time to plant:  spring or fall 

Best type of soil: loam or clay 

Companion plants: hydrangeas, roses, ornamental grasses, boxwood

Toxicity level: toxic for pets and children if ingested 

Invasive species: no