If you’re looking for a fast-growing evergreen screen, you’ve probably asked how tall does green giant arborvitae grow. This popular landscape tree is famous for reaching impressive heights quickly, offering privacy faster than many other options. Its rapid growth and dense foliage make it a top choice for homeowners and gardeners.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about its growth, from its ultimate size to the care that helps it thrive. You’ll learn how to get the most out of your Green Giants.
How Tall Does Green Giant Arborvitae Grow
The Green Giant arborvitae is a true heavyweight in the garden. At maturity, it typically reaches a height of 50 to 60 feet. In ideal conditions, some specimens can even soar to 70 feet tall.
Its spread is equally substantial, usually 12 to 20 feet wide. This creates a thick, solid wall of green that’s perfect for blocking wind, noise, and unwanted views. It’s this combination of height and density that makes it so effective.
Understanding Its Rapid Growth Rate
What truly sets the Green Giant apart is its speed. You can expect 3 to 5 feet of vertical growth per year when the tree is young and established. This rapid pace means you get a significant screen in just a few growing seasons.
Several factors influence this growth rate:
- Sunlight: Full sun (6+ hours daily) is best for maximum growth.
- Soil: It prefers moist, well-drained soil but is surprisingly adaptable.
- Water: Consistent watering, especially in the first two years, is crucial.
- Climate: It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 5 through 7, and can handle parts of zone 8.
Planning for Its Full Size
It’s essential to plant with the future in mind. A common mistake is planting these trees too close to structures, property lines, or power lines. Remember, a 60-foot tree needs space.
Follow these spacing guidelines for a hedge or screen:
- For a dense, continuous screen: Plant 5 to 6 feet apart, measured from trunk to trunk.
- For a more staggered, natural look: Plant 8 to 10 feet apart.
- If planting a single specimen: Ensure it has at least 10 to 15 feet of clearance from buildings.
How to Plant for Maximum Growth
Proper planting gives your Green Giant the best start. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide.
- Choose the Right Time: Early fall or spring are ideal, allowing roots to establish before extreme weather.
- Dig a Proper Hole: Make it twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper. The top of the root ball should be level with the ground.
- Prepare the Soil: Mix some compost into the native soil you removed. This improves drainage and provides nutrients.
- Position the Tree: Place the tree in the hole, ensuring it’s straight. Backfill with your soil mixture, gently tamping down to remove air pockets.
- Water Deeply: Soak the area thoroughly after planting. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base (but not touching the trunk) to retain moisture.
Caring for Your Young Trees
The first two years are critical for establishment. Water your new arborvitae deeply once a week, unless rainfall is abundant. A slow, deep soaking is much better than frequent light sprinklings.
Avoid fertilizing at planting time. Wait until the second spring, then use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for evergreens. Over-fertilizing can actually harm the tree and cause excessive, weak growth.
Pruning and Shaping Your Green Giants
Green Giants have a naturally attractive, pyramidal shape that often needs little pruning. However, light pruning can help encourage density if desired.
Follow these pruning tips:
- When to Prune: The best time is in early spring before new growth starts. You can also do light trimming in mid-summer.
- How to Prune: Never cut back into old, brown wood, as it may not regrow. Only trim the current year’s green growth.
- Maintaining Height: If you wish to control the ultimate height, you can selectively prune the central leader. This should be done gradually over several years.
Always use sharp, clean tools to make clean cuts and prevent disease. Its a good practice to wipe blades with rubbing alcohol between trees.
Common Challenges and Solutions
While generally resilient, Green Giants can face a few issues. Bagworms are a occasional pest; hand-pick bags in winter or use appropriate organic controls if needed. Deer tend to avoid this variety, which is a major advantage over other arborvitae.
Root rot can occur in poorly drained, soggy soil. This is why site selection and proper planting are so important. If you notice browning foliage, check soil moisture first—both drought and waterlogging can cause similar symptoms.
Comparing to Other Arborvitae
How does it stack up against other common types? The Leyland Cypress grows similarly fast but is often more susceptible to disease. The Emerald Green arborvitae is a beautiful smaller option, but it only reaches about 15 feet tall and grows much slower.
For a fast, tall, and reliable screen, the Green Giant is frequently the best all-around performer. Its toughness and adaptability are hard to beat.
Long-Term Landscape Impact
As your trees reach their full stature, they become a dominant part of your landscape. They provide year-round structure and color. They also offer valuable habitat for birds, who appreciate the thick foliage for nesting and shelter.
Their size can cast shade on surrounding areas, which is something to consider for sun-loving plants nearby. The shade they provide can be a welcome cool spot in the summer, though.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How fast do Green Giant arborvitae grow per year?
You can expect 3 to 5 feet of growth per year under good conditions. Growth may be slower in the first year as it establishes roots, then it really takes off.
What is the lifespan of a Green Giant arborvitae?
With proper care, these trees can live for 40 years or more in the landscape. They are considered long-lived for a fast-growing tree.
Can you keep Green Giant arborvitae small?
You can control their height through annual pruning, but it’s a constant effort. It’s better to choose a smaller variety if you have limited space from the start.
How far from a fence should I plant Green Giant arborvitae?
Plant at least 6 to 8 feet from a fence to account for its mature width. This prevents overcrowding and allows for air circulation, which reduces disease risk. Always check local regulations about property lines too.
Why are the bottoms of my Green Giants turning brown?
Inner foliage browning in fall is often normal shedding of older needles. However, browning at the bottom from the outside in can signal not enough water, too much dog urine, or soil problems. Assess your watering practices first.
In conclusion, the Green Giant arborvitae is a superb choice when you need height and privacy fast. By understanding its potential size and providing simple, consistent care, you can grow a beautiful, living fence that will serve your property for decades. Remember to plan ahead, give it space, and enjoy the rapid transformation it brings to your garden.