Watering a giant arborvitae

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from team baumbad

29.01.2026

Giant arborvitae origin
Giant arborvitae care and location
Pruning a giant arborvitae
Fertilizing a giant arborvitae
Watering a giant arborvitae

Giant arborvitae origin

The western red cedar (Thuja plicata) belongs to the cypress family (Cupressaceae). It is an evergreen, fast-growing conifer that is planted in Europe especially as a hedge plant or as a solitary tree in parks and gardens.

The western red cedar (Arborvitae) is native to the Pacific coast of North America, where it forms natural old-growth forests alongside other conifers such as the Sitka spruce and the Douglas fir. Indigenous peoples valued the tree's robust yet lightweight wood. and used it to build canoes, houses, and masks. The giant arborvitae has been planted in Europe since the 19th century.

In its original habitat, the tree can grow up to 50-70 meters tall, while in Central European gardens it usually reaches heights of between 15 and 30 meters.

Giant arborvitae care and location

The giant arborvitae prefers a sunny to partially shaded location. In full sun, it develops particularly dense and vigorous shoots, but it also thrives in partial shade. The soil should be humus-rich, nutrient-rich, and well-draining. The giant arborvitae does not tolerate waterlogging well.

The giant arborvitae grows in sandy to loamy soils, as long as they are not too dry. In terms of care, the giant arborvitae is relatively undemanding.

Pruning a giant arborvitae

Regular pruning promotes a compact growth habit, especially in hedges. The best time for... Cutting The best time for pruning is late spring or late summer. The tree does not tolerate radical pruning back into old wood well. Gloves should be worn when pruning, as the plant sap can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

Fertilizing a giant arborvitae

The nutrient requirements of the giant arborvitae are moderate to high, especially in densely planted hedges. fertilization Applying an organic fertilizer or a special conifer fertilizer in spring supports the growth and vitality of the plant.

Compost, horn shavings, or well-rotted manure can also be applied to improve soil structure and provide long-term nutrients. Regular nutrient supply is particularly beneficial in the early years, i.e., the first five to seven years after planting, as the root system is still developing.

Watering a giant arborvitae

The water requirements of the giant arborvitae are moderate to high. Newly planted specimens need continuous watering during the first few years. Water supply, especially during prolonged periods of drought or heat. Even mature trees need regular watering during hot and dry summer months.

Deep watering is essential: The roots of the giant arborvitae reach deep into the soil, so shallow watering is insufficient. Slow, even watering is ideal, for example with a tree bath watering ring or drip irrigation. However, waterlogging should be avoided as it can lead to root rot.

In regions with low rainfall or on sandy soils, it is advisable to use a mulch layer Applying bark mulch or grass clippings helps retain soil moisture. Even in winter, occasional watering on frost-free days may be necessary, especially for evergreen plants like Thuja, as they continue to lose water through their needles even in the colder months.