Thuja occ. 'Smaragd' 60-80CM

Choosing the Right Location and Preparing the Soil

Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’, also known as the Emerald Green Arborvitae, is a compact, slow-growing evergreen conifer valued for its rich green colour and dense, pyramidal form. The 60–80 cm size range is ideal for planting as a hedge, screen, or individual accent. With proper soil preparation and placement, these trees establish quickly and stay vibrant year-round.

• Light Requirements: Prefers full sun for optimal colour and dense growth but tolerates light shade. Too much shade can cause thinning foliage.

• Soil Type: Thrives in well-drained, fertile soil. Tolerates a range of soil types, including sandy loam and light clay, but dislikes waterlogging.

• Soil Preparation: Loosen soil to twice the width of the root ball and about the same depth. Mix in compost or well-rotted organic matter to enhance structure and fertility.

• Moisture Conditions: Requires consistently moist but not soggy soil, especially during the establishment period.

• Shelter: Although hardy, it benefits from some protection against strong winter winds that can cause browning.

• Spacing: For hedges, space 50–60 cm apart. For standalone trees, allow at least 1.2–1.5 metres between plants.

Planting and Establishment

Correct planting ensures Thuja ‘Smaragd’ develops a healthy root system and maintains its characteristic shape and colour.

• Planting Time: Best planted in spring or early autumn when the soil is warm and moist. Avoid planting during frost or periods of drought.

• Hole Size: Dig a hole slightly wider than the root ball and equal in depth. The top of the root ball should sit level with the surrounding soil.

• Positioning: Remove the tree from its pot, loosening any circling roots gently. Place it upright in the centre of the hole.

• Backfilling: Mix the excavated soil with compost and refill the hole gradually, firming lightly as you go to eliminate air pockets without compacting too tightly.

• Watering: Water deeply immediately after planting. Continue to water regularly during the first growing season, especially in dry conditions.

• Mulching: Apply a 5–8 cm layer of organic mulch such as bark chips or compost around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Keep mulch a few centimetres away from the trunk to prevent rot.

• Staking: Usually unnecessary, but in windy locations or exposed areas, use a single stake for one season to stabilise the plant.

• Hedge Planting Tip: When planting a row, use a string line to maintain even spacing and a straight alignment.

Aftercare and Long-Term Maintenance

Thuja ‘Smaragd’ is easy to maintain once established. With simple yearly care, it will remain dense, lush, and vibrantly green for decades.

• Watering Maintenance: Water thoroughly once or twice a week during the first two years. Mature plants are moderately drought-tolerant but benefit from occasional deep watering in dry spells.

• Feeding: In early spring, apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser or a conifer-specific feed to promote healthy, even growth. Avoid over-fertilising, as excessive nutrients can weaken roots.

• Pruning: Requires minimal pruning. Trim lightly in late spring or early summer to maintain shape or control size. Avoid cutting into old wood, as new growth may not emerge.

• Weed Control: Keep the base of the plant free of grass and weeds to prevent competition for moisture and nutrients.

• Winter Care: Fully hardy but may need protection from drying winds. A winter mulch helps insulate roots in colder regions.

• Pest and Disease Management: Generally pest-resistant, though occasional issues with spider mites or browning can occur in dry or exposed conditions. Maintain good watering and avoid overcrowding to ensure airflow.

• Long-Term Growth: Thuja ‘Smaragd’ grows slowly to around 3–4 metres tall and 1–1.5 metres wide, maintaining its neat conical shape without extensive pruning.

With careful planting, consistent watering, and gentle maintenance, Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’ (60–80 cm) will form a stunning, evergreen feature or privacy hedge, providing structure and vibrant colour in any landscape year-round

• Size
  60-80 CM C3.5

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

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