Arborvitae Care Guide

Watering

Water more frequently in the first few months after planting, while the roots are still recovering. For fall plantings, water for the first few weeks. After that, the goal is the equivalent of one inch of rain (about 10 gallons) per week, split over 2–3 waterings, applied slowly so the water reaches the bottom of the root ball.

There are two easy ways to do this:

• Set a hose to a slow trickle and leave it long enough for water to reach the bottom of the root ball.
• Or connect a "tree-watering" soaker hose. Flow rates vary from hose to hose, so don't watch the clock — run it long enough to deliver about 10 gallons per tree per week .

Arborvitae are not drought tolerant. In extremely hot, long dry spells: water, water, water. You can't overwater during that time.

After a long winter your trees need a good soaking, and our spring showers often don't deliver enough water soon enough. Put a reminder on your calendar for April 1st to start checking whether they need water again.

How to Check Soil Moisture

The only way to know if you've watered enough is to check the soil; how long it stays moist depends on the weather and your soil type. For the first few weeks, check the root ball itself; after that, check the soil right next to it.

• Stick your finger into the soil up to the second knuckle (about 2 inches). If it's moist at that depth, check again the next day. If it's dry, water.
• A dowel or pencil works too; you're checking down about 2 inches.
• An inexpensive moisture meter (about $20 at garden centers or Home Depot) is very helpful.
• Always check under the mulch when testing for moisture.

Mulching

Arborvitae have a shallow root system, and mulch protects it, keeping roots from drying out in summer and insulating them in winter. Use any good mulch and spread it 3–4 inches deep, at least out to the drip line, keeping the mulch about 2 inches away from the trunk.

Fertilizing

Fertilize in late April / early May and again in September with Plant-Tone. Apply 4 cups per tree (about 1.33 lbs), twice a year. We apply Bio-Tone, a root stimulator, at planting time.

• Spring plantings: apply Plant-Tone in September.
• Fall plantings: apply Plant-Tone in the spring.

Plant-Tone is available at Home Depot in 8 lb bags, and in larger sizes from specialty garden centers. We usually keep 36 lb bags on hand and sell them at cost; just ask if you're interested.