When to plant Arborvitae?

Arborvitae thrives in full sun or partial shade, though plants grown in full sun develop denser, more compact foliage. It tolerates a wide range of soil types—loam, clay, and sandy soils all suit it—provided drainage is reasonable. Avoid waterlogged ground, which can lead to root rot. Plant container-grown arborvitae in March, April, May, September, or October. Autumn planting is often ideal because cooler, wetter weather helps roots establish without the stress of summer heat. Dig a hole roughly twice the width of the root ball but no deeper; the top of the root ball should sit level with the surrounding soil. Break up compacted soil at the base and sides of the hole to encourage roots to spread. If you're planting a hedge, space plants 40 cm apart for a dense screen. For specimen trees, allow at least 80–100 cm between plants to accommodate their mature spread. After positioning the plant, backfill with the excavated soil, firming gently to eliminate air pockets. Water thoroughly immediately after planting to settle the soil around the roots. Apply a 5–7 cm layer of organic mulch—bark chips or well-rotted compost—around the base, keeping it a few centimetres clear of the trunk to prevent rot. Mulch conserves moisture and suppresses weeds while roots establish. Newly planted arborvitae benefit from regular watering during their first growing season, especially in dry spells. Check soil moisture weekly and water deeply if the top few centimetres feel dry. Staking is rarely necessary unless planting in an exposed, windy site.