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Ultimate Guide to North Pole® Arborvitae Care | Thuja occidentalis: Planting, Pruning, and More

North Pole® arborvitae is a beautiful, hardy evergreen tree that is perfect for any landscape. It has a narrow, upright habit with dark green foliage that turns a golden hue in the winter. North Pole arborvitae is also very resistant to pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance choice for homeowners.

This article will teach you everything you need to know about North Pole® arborvitae, including how to plant it, care for it, and prune it. You will also learn about the different varieties of North Pole arborvitae and how to choose the right one for your landscape.

Key Takeaways of North Pole® Arborvitae Care

• North Pole arborvitae is a hardy, low-maintenance evergreen tree.
• It is perfect for any landscape and can be used in a variety of ways.
• To plant North Pole arborvitae, choose a sunny or partially shaded spot with well-drained soil. Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping it down gently to remove any air pockets. Water the tree thoroughly and mulch around the base with a 2-inch layer of bark chips or wood chips.
• Once established, North Pole arborvitae is very drought tolerant. However, it is still important to water the tree regularly, especially during the first year after planting. Water deeply once a week, or more often if the weather is hot and dry.
• North Pole arborvitae does not need to be fertilized often. However, you can fertilize the tree in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Be sure to follow the directions on the fertilizer label.
• North Pole arborvitae is very resistant to pests and diseases. However, it is still important to inspect the tree regularly for any signs of problems. If you see any pests or diseases, contact a local arborist for assistance.
• North Pole arborvitae can be pruned in the spring or summer. To prune the tree, simply remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. You can also trim the tree to maintain its shape and size.

What is Arborvitae?

Arborvitae is a genus of coniferous trees and shrubs native to North America. They are prized for their evergreen foliage, which can range in color from green to yellow to blue. Arborvitae are also very hardy and tolerant of a wide range of growing conditions.

We have also talked about Fire Chief Arborvitae Care Guide which is a Stunning Dwarf Evergreen with Golden-Orange Foliage

What is North Pole® Arborvitae?

North Pole® arborvitae is a narrow columnar selection of American arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis), which is also known as eastern white cedar or northern white cedar. It is a native evergreen tree that grows in the northeastern and north-central United States and Canada.

North Pole® arborvitae was discovered by Art Boe of Faribault, Minnesota in 1992. He noticed a seedling of American arborvitae that had a very upright and narrow habit. He propagated it and named it after his hometown.

What are the Features and Benefits of North Pole® Arborvitae?

North Pole® arborvitae has many features and benefits that make it a desirable evergreen shrub for your garden. Here are some of them:

• It has a narrow upright columnar habit that makes it ideal for small spaces, borders, hedges, screens, or specimens. It can grow up to 15 feet tall and 5 feet wide at maturity.
• It has dark green foliage that stays green all year round. It does not turn brown or bronze in winter like some other arborvitaes. It also resists winter burn, which is a common problem that causes foliage to dry out and die due to cold temperatures and wind .
• It is very hardy and adaptable to a wide range of soils and climates. It can grow in zones 3 to 7, which means it can tolerate temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C). It can also grow in full sun or partial shade, as long as it receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day .
• It is easy to grow and care for. It does not need much pruning, watering, or fertilizing. It is also resistant to most pests and diseases that affect arborvitaes .
• It adds elegance and interest to your garden all year round. Its dark green foliage contrasts well with other plants and provides a backdrop for colorful flowers. Its narrow pyramidal shape adds height and structure to your landscape. It can also attract birds and wildlife to your garden .

How to Plant North Pole® Arborvitae

If you want to plant North Pole® arborvitae in your garden, here are some steps you need to follow:

• Choose a location that has full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil. Avoid planting in low-lying areas that tend to collect water or have poor drainage.
• Dig a hole that is twice as wide and as deep as the root ball of the plant. Loosen the soil around the hole and mix some organic matter such as compost or peat moss into it.
• Remove the plant from its container and gently loosen the roots. Place the plant in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the ground surface. Fill the hole with soil and tamp it down lightly around the root zone.
• Water the plant thoroughly after planting and apply a layer of mulch around the base to conserve moisture and prevent weeds. Do not pile the mulch against the stem of the plant as this can cause rotting.
• Space the plants according to your desired effect. For a hedge or screen, plant them 3 to 4 feet apart. For a specimen or accent, plant them 5 feet apart or more .

How to Prune North Pole® Arborvitae

North Pole® arborvitae does not need much pruning as it naturally maintains its narrow upright shape. However, you may want to prune it for the following reasons:

• To remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. This will improve the health and appearance of the plant and prevent the spread of pests and diseases .
• To shape or reduce the size of the plant. This will help you achieve your desired look and fit the plant into your space .
• To encourage new growth and density. This will make the plant look fuller and more lush .

Here are some tips on how to prune North Pole® arborvitae:

• Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This will minimize the risk of winter injury and allow the plant to heal quickly .
• Use sharp and clean pruning tools such as shears, loppers, or saws. This will prevent tearing or crushing the branches and reduce the chance of infection .
• Cut just above a bud or a branch that is pointing in the direction you want the new growth to go. This will stimulate new growth and maintain the natural shape of the plant .
• Remove no more than one-third of the plant at a time. This will avoid stressing or weakening the plant and allow it to recover faster .
• Dispose of any pruned material properly. Do not leave it on the ground or compost it as this can harbor pests and diseases .

How to Water North Pole® Arborvitae

North Pole® arborvitae is moderately drought tolerant once established, but it still needs regular watering to thrive. Here are some guidelines on how to water North Pole® arborvitae:

• Water deeply and infrequently. This will encourage deep root growth and improve the plant’s ability to withstand dry periods .
• Water when the top few inches of soil feel dry to the touch. This will prevent overwatering or underwatering, which can cause root rot or wilting .
• Water at the base of the plant and avoid wetting the foliage. This will reduce evaporation and prevent fungal diseases .
• Water more often during hot, dry, or windy weather. This will prevent dehydration and stress on the plant .
• Water less often during cold, wet, or cloudy weather. This will prevent waterlogging and freezing of the roots .

How to Fertilize North Pole® Arborvitae

North Pole® arborvitae does not need much fertilizing as it can grow well in most soils. However, you may want to fertilize it for the following reasons:

• To improve the soil quality and nutrient availability. This will enhance the growth and health of the plant .
• To boost the foliage color and density. This will make the plant look more vibrant and attractive .

Here are some tips on how to fertilize North Pole® arborvitae:

• Fertilize in early spring before new growth begins. This will provide the plant with enough nutrients for the growing season .
• Use a balanced slow-release fertilizer that is formulated for evergreens. This will deliver a steady supply of nutrients without burning or leaching out of the soil .
• Follow the label instructions for the amount and frequency of application. This will prevent overfertilizing or under fertilizing, which can harm or stunt the plant

How to Control Pests and Diseases of North Pole® Arborvitae

North Pole® arborvitae is resistant to most pests and diseases that affect arborvitaes, but it may still encounter some problems occasionally. Here are some common pests and diseases of North Pole® arborvitae and how to control them:

• Spider mites: These are tiny insects that suck the sap from the foliage, causing it to turn yellow or brown and drop off. They are more active in hot and dry conditions. To control spider mites, spray the plant with a strong jet of water or use an insecticidal soap or oil. Repeat as needed until the infestation is gone.
• Deer: These are large animals that love to browse on the tender shoots and foliage of arborvitaes, especially in winter when food is scarce. They can cause severe damage and deformity to the plant. To deter deer, use a repellent spray or fence around the plant. You can also plant other plants that deer dislike around the arborvitae, such as lavender, sage, or rosemary.
• Root rot: This is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to decay and die. It is more common in poorly drained soils or overwatered plants. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-drained and do not overwater the plant. To treat root rot, remove any affected roots and replant the plant in fresh soil. You can also apply a fungicide to the soil to kill any remaining fungi.
• Winter burn: This is a physiological disorder that causes the foliage to dry out and die due to cold temperatures and wind exposure. It is more prevalent in young or newly planted arborvitaes. To prevent winter burn, protect the plant from harsh winds by placing it in a sheltered location or wrapping it with burlap or a frost cloth. You can also water the plant deeply before the ground freezes to keep it hydrated. To treat winter burn, prune off any dead or damaged branches in spring and wait for new growth to emerge.

How to Use North Pole® Arborvitae in Your Garden Design

North Pole® arborvitae is a versatile evergreen shrub that can be used in various ways in your garden design. Here are some ideas on how to use North Pole® arborvitae in your landscape:

• As a hedge or screen: You can plant North Pole® arborvitae in a row along your property line, driveway, or fence to create a natural barrier that provides privacy and security. You can also vary the spacing and height of the plants to create a more dynamic and interesting look.
• As a specimen or accent: You can plant North Pole® arborvitae as a single plant or in a group of three or five to create a focal point or an accent in your garden. You can place it near an entrance, a patio, a pond, or a fountain to draw attention and add elegance.
• As a backdrop or border: You can plant North Pole® arborvitae behind or along other plants to create a backdrop or a border that enhances their colors and shapes. You can choose plants that contrast or complement the dark green foliage of North Pole® arborvitae, such as flowers, grasses, or shrubs.
• As a container plant: You can grow North Pole® arborvitae in a large pot or planter to decorate your porch, deck, balcony, or patio. You can also move it around as needed to change the look of your outdoor space.

Arborvitae Varieties

There are many different varieties of arborvitae available, each with its own unique characteristics. Some popular varieties include:

• Green Giant arborvitae: This variety is known for its fast growth and large size.
• Emerald Green arborvitae: This variety has bright green foliage that stays green all year round.
• Golden Globe arborvitae: This variety has a golden-yellow foliage color.
• Hicks yew arborvitae: This variety has a compact, pyramidal shape.

Tips for Growing North Pole® Arborvitae

Here are a few tips for growing North Pole arborvitae trees:

• Plant the tree in a sunny or partially shaded spot with well-drained soil.
• Water the tree regularly, especially during the first year after planting.
• Fertilize the tree in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
• Prune the tree as needed to maintain its shape and size.
• Protect the tree from winter burn by wrapping it in burlap or burlap cloth.

North Pole Arborvitae Care Tips

• Mulch around the base of the tree with a 2-inch layer of bark chips or wood chips. This will help to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Water the tree regularly, especially during the first year after planting. Water deeply once a week, or more often if the weather is hot and dry.
• Fertilize the tree in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Be sure to follow the directions on the fertilizer label.
• Inspect the tree regularly for any signs of pests or diseases. If you see any problems, contact a local arborist for assistance.
• Prune the tree in the spring or summer to remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. You can also trim the tree to maintain its shape and size.

North Pole Arborvitae Design Ideas

• North Pole arborvitae trees can be used in a variety of ways in the landscape. They can be planted as a single specimen tree, used to create a hedge, or planted in a mixed border. North Pole arborvitae trees are also a popular choice for windbreaks and privacy screens.
• Here are a few design ideas for North Pole arborvitae trees:
  • Plant a row of North Pole arborvitae trees to create a privacy screen or windbreak.
  • Plant a North Pole arborvitae tree as a single specimen tree in the front yard.
  • Plant a North Pole arborvitae tree in a mixed border with other evergreen and deciduous trees and shrubs.
  • Use North Pole arborvitae trees to create a formal hedge.
  • Plant North Pole arborvitae trees in a container on the patio or deck.

Conclusion

North Pole arborvitae is a beautiful, hardy evergreen tree that is perfect for any landscape. It is easy to care for and resistant to pests and diseases. North Pole arborvitae trees can be used in a variety of ways in the landscape, as a single specimen tree, in a hedge, or in a mixed border.