Arborvitae, with its vibrant green foliage and dense growth habit, is a popular choice for homeowners looking to enhance their privacy and create a natural sanctuary in their outdoor space. These versatile evergreen trees and shrubs are known for their ability to form dense screens, block out unwanted views, and provide a serene backdrop to any landscape.
If you’re considering using arborvitae for privacy purposes, this article will explore the different varieties available and help you choose the right one for your needs.
Detailed Discussion on Different Types of Arborvitae Varieties for Privacy
Arborvitae, belonging to the cypress family, encompasses several species and cultivars that vary in height, shape, and growth rate. Here are some popular arborvitae varieties known for their privacy-creating properties:
1. Thuja Green Giant
– Height: 30-40 feet
– Width: 10-15 feet
– Growth Rate: Fast
Thuja Green Giant is one of the most sought-after varieties for privacy. It grows rapidly, forming a tall, pyramid-shaped hedge that can block out unwanted views quickly. With its dark green foliage and year-round density, it offers an excellent solution for those looking for a fast-growing privacy screen.
2. Emerald Green Arborvitae
– Height: 10-15 feet
– Width: 3-4 feet
– Growth Rate: Moderate
Emerald Green Arborvitae is a compact and narrow variety, making it ideal for smaller spaces or as a foundation planting. Its dense foliage and columnar shape create a beautiful, uniform barrier. This variety requires less pruning and maintenance compared to other arborvitae varieties.
3. Techny Arborvitae
– Height: 10-15 feet
– Width: 6-8 feet
– Growth Rate: Medium
Techny Arborvitae, a native North American species, is known for its adaptability and hardiness. It forms a dense and compact hedge that provides excellent privacy. With its dark green foliage, Techny Arborvitae adds a touch of elegance to any landscape. It also handles harsh weather conditions better than some other arborvitae varieties.
4. Nigra Arborvitae
– Height: 8-12 feet
– Width: 4-6 feet
– Growth Rate: Slow to Medium
Nigra Arborvitae, also known as the “Dark Green” arborvitae, is a slow-growing variety with rich green foliage. Its compact, pyramidal form and dense branches make it a popular choice for privacy hedges and borders. With its moderate growth rate, Nigra Arborvitae requires less frequent pruning.
Concluding Thoughts on Different Types of Arborvitae Varieties for Privacy
When it comes to creating privacy in your outdoor living space, arborvitae varieties offer a versatile and visually appealing solution. Whether you need a fast-growing screen or a compact hedge, the different arborvitae varieties mentioned above can suit various landscapes and preferences.
Before making a decision, consider factors such as your desired height and width, the growth rate required, and the space available for planting. It’s also crucial to provide proper care and maintenance to ensure your chosen arborvitae variety thrives and continues to provide the desired privacy over the long term.
FAQs about Different Types of Arborvitae Varieties for Privacy
1. How far apart should I plant arborvitae for a privacy hedge?
For arborvitae varieties aimed at creating a privacy hedge, spacing is crucial. Depending on the variety and your desired density, plant them 3 to 5 feet apart, center to center. Closer spacing will result in a quicker fill, while wider spacing may take longer to achieve a dense screen.
2. How tall will arborvitae grow?
The height of arborvitae varieties can vary greatly. Some, like the Thuja Green Giant, can reach up to 40 feet, while others, like the Emerald Green Arborvitae, stay more compact at around 15 feet. Be sure to research the specific variety you plan to grow to determine its expected height.
3. How can I maintain the privacy screen created by arborvitae?
Regular pruning and trimming are necessary to maintain the desired shape and density of your arborvitae privacy screen. Prune any dead or damaged branches and maintain a tapered shape by trimming the top narrower than the bottom. Consult pruning guides specific to the variety you choose for best practices.
In conclusion, selecting the right type of arborvitae variety is essential to create a privacy screen that suits your specific needs. Consider the growth rate, height, and width requirements of each variety, and choose accordingly. With proper care and maintenance, arborvitae can create a lush, green oasis and protect your privacy for years to come.
