Arguably one of the most underrated plants in the landscape, Arborvitae is a dainty evergreen with an elegant pyramidal form. Its popularity lies in its versatility – it can be grown in a variety of climates, and its foliage remains lush and green all year long. Arborvitae is also relatively low maintenance, making it a favorite choice for both beginners and experienced gardeners.
While these plants can be planted directly in the soil, Arborvitae is also well suited for growing in pots. Watering arborvitae in pots can be a bit tricky, as the plant is prone to root rot if over-watered. In general, Arborvitae should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Depending on where you live, this could be anywhere between one to two times a week.
If you’re interested in growing Arborvitae in pots, read on for some basic tips on how to care for these beautiful, lush, evergreen plants.
Why Consider Growing Arborvitae in Pots?
Tolerant to a wide range of growing conditions, Arborvitae is a great choice for gardeners who live in a variety of climates. Many homes choose to grow Arborvitae in pots to add a touch of greenery to their patio or porch. Because they don’t require a lot of maintenance, Arborvitae is also a good choice for busy gardeners. Additionally, its compact size makes it a good option for small spaces, appealing to those who have little space in their home or garden.
Watering and Basic Caring Tips for Arborvitae in Pots
There’s something special about arborvitae trees. They’re elegant and regal, yet also tough and resilient. The deep green of the needles is offset by the dark brown of the bark, and the overall effect is one of serenity and strength. And when you add the fact that they’re relatively easy to care for, it’s no wonder that they’re such a popular choice for homeowners. However, achieving this balance of beauty and low-maintenance care can be a little tricky, especially when it comes to watering.
If you’re thinking of adding Arborvitae to your home, here are a few basic caring tips to keep in mind.
Choosing the Right Pot
Imagine a tall, evergreen tree in a pot on your front porch. Its deep green needles provide a cheerful welcome to visitors, and its textured trunk adds visual interest. Now, imagine that same tree in a plastic pot that is too small for its roots. The tree looks cramped and unhappy, and the plastic pot cheapens the overall look of your porch. If you are considering adding Arborvitae to your landscape, be sure to choose the right pot.
Terra cotta pots provide a classic look that complements most homes, while glazed ceramic pots add a touch of elegance. If you want something more modern, consider using a sleek metal planter. But most importantly, aside from taking into consideration what your pots look like, the right size pot is important for the health of your Arborvitae.
Choosing a pot that’s too small will restrict the growth of your tree, while a pot that’s too large will allow the water to pool at the bottom and potentially cause rot. Be sure to measure the width and depth of your chosen pot, and make sure that the plant’s root ball will fit comfortably inside.
Watering Arborvitae in Pots
Even the hardiest of trees need a little TLC when they’re growing in pots. Arborvitae are no exception. These tough evergreens can withstand all sorts of climates, but they need to be properly watered to stay healthy. Make sure that you water Arborvitae deeply. They have deep roots, so giving them a shallow watering won’t do them much good. Watering them too little, they’ll start to turn brown and crispy. Overwatering may result in the dreaded root rot, so be sure to water only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
How often you water your Arborvitae will depend on a few factors, such as the type of pot you’re using, the weather conditions, and how much sun the tree is getting. In general, Arborvitae should be watered at least once a week. However, if it’s hot and dry outside or if the pot is in direct sunlight, you may need to water it more often.
During the growing season, or if you’ve recently transplanted your Arborvitae, you may need to water it twice a week. Be sure to give the tree a good soaking each time until the water begins to drain out of the pot’s drainage hole.
If your arborvitae is turning brown in the summer, it may not be getting enough water. Here’s how to save it.
Fertilizing Arborvitae in Pots
Just like with watering, the frequency of fertilizing Arborvitae will depend on a few factors. If you’re using a potting mix that already contains fertilizer, you may only need to fertilize your tree once a year. Mulching the soil around the tree with compost or fertilizer will also help to keep it healthy.
Pruning Tips
Similar to other varieties, it doesn’t require much pruning. It stands to reason then that Arborvitae wouldn’t need much in the way of pruning. In fact, most of the time, all you’ll have to do is remove any dead or damaged branches. However, if your tree is growing out of control, you may consider trimming some of the extending branches to maintain its shape. This is best done during the late winter or early spring before new leaves and growth emerge.
Sunlight Requirements
Arborvitae thrives in full sun, so placing it in a spot where it will get plenty of sunlight is vital. It can be your front porch, a spot in your garden, or even a pot on your deck. Just make sure it’s in a spot where it will get at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Preventing Pests and Diseases
Although Arborvitae is a tough plant, it’s not immune to pests and diseases. Aphids, spider mites, and scale can all damage the leaves of your tree. If you notice any of these pests or diseases, take action right away to treat them. Treating these pests and diseases early is key to preventing any long-term damage.
Related:
Does Arborvitae Grow in Texas?
How often to water arborvitae in pots: Final Thoughts
Choosing to plant and grow Arborvitae in pots is a great way to add some greenery and color to your home or garden. These evergreens are easy to care for, and with a little TLC, they’ll thrive in their new pot. Just be sure to water them deeply, fertilize them once a year, and prune them as needed.
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