Evergreen shrub – Tater Tot Arborvitae

Tater Tot Arborvitae

Botanical name: thuja occidentalis 

Beginner friendly?: yes 

Average size at maturity: up to 3 ft in height with up to a 4 ft spread 

Hardy zone: zones 3-8 

Foliage color: green 

Growth rate: reaches fully mature size in first few growing seasons 

Pruning instructions: lightly trim in the early spring to maintain desired shape and size 

Propagation methods: propagate with cuttings in the fall or summer months 

Landscape use: border, container, mass planting 

Light needs: 4-6 hours of sun per day 

Special features: compact size, winter color interest, low maintenance 

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

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

Best time to plant: spring or fall 

Best type of soil: can adapt to all kinds of soil 

Companion plants: barberry, ornamental grasses, boxwoods, azaleas 

Toxicity level: toxic for humans and pets if ingested 

Invasive species: no