Emerald Green Vs. Thuja Arborvitae: Which Is Best?

Nov 18, 2025 by Alex Braham 51 views

Hey guys! Choosing the right evergreen for your yard can be a bit of a headache, right? Especially when you're stuck between two super popular options like the Emerald Green Arborvitae and the classic Thuja Arborvitae. Both are fantastic for adding privacy and a touch of green to your landscape year-round, but they have some key differences that might make one a better fit for your needs than the other. Let's dive into a detailed comparison so you can make the best decision for your garden!

Understanding Arborvitae

Before we get into the specifics of Emerald Green Arborvitae versus other Thuja varieties, let's cover some ground. Arborvitae, deriving from Latin for "tree of life", are a group of evergreen conifers in the cypress family. They are admired for their dense foliage, pyramidal shape, and relatively low maintenance requirements.

These plants are native to North America and East Asia and have been cultivated for centuries. They’re commonly used in landscaping for creating hedges, privacy screens, and as ornamental trees. Arborvitae are generally hardy and adaptable, thriving in a range of soil types and climates, which makes them a favorite among gardeners and landscapers. Their ability to withstand various conditions, including cold winters and hot summers, further enhances their appeal.

One of the significant advantages of arborvitae is their deer resistance. While no plant is entirely deer-proof, arborvitae are less palatable to deer compared to many other evergreens. This is particularly valuable in areas where deer populations are high. Additionally, arborvitae provide excellent shelter for birds and other wildlife, contributing to the ecological diversity of your garden. When properly cared for, arborvitae can live for many years, providing lasting beauty and functionality to your landscape. Whether used as a formal hedge or a standalone specimen, arborvitae offer versatility and reliability, making them a staple in many landscapes.

Emerald Green Arborvitae: The Compact Beauty

Okay, let's kick things off with the Emerald Green Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis 'Smaragd'). This little guy is super popular, and for good reason. When talking about Emerald Green Arborvitae, you're looking at a cultivar known for its slender, upright form and vibrant green foliage. It typically grows to about 10-15 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide, making it perfect for smaller yards or tighter spaces.

Key Features of Emerald Green

Size and Shape: Its neat, columnar shape is a standout. Emerald Green maintains a consistent width from top to bottom, giving it a formal, manicured look without a ton of pruning.
Foliage: The foliage is a rich, emerald green that holds its color well throughout the year. It doesn't bronze or fade as much as some other arborvitae varieties, keeping your landscape looking fresh and vibrant.
Growth Rate: Emerald Green Arborvitae has a moderate growth rate, typically adding about 1 foot per year. This means you won't have to wait forever to get a decent-sized privacy screen, but it also won't require constant trimming to keep it in check.
Sun and Soil: These guys love full sun (at least 6 hours a day) but can tolerate partial shade. They prefer well-drained soil and don't like to sit in soggy conditions. Make sure the soil is slightly acidic to neutral for best results.
Maintenance: Low maintenance is the name of the game! Emerald Green requires minimal pruning, mostly just to remove any dead or damaged branches. They're also relatively pest and disease-resistant, making them a hassle-free option for most gardeners.

Pros of Choosing Emerald Green

Compact Size: Ideal for smaller yards or narrow spaces.
Beautiful Color: Retains its vibrant green color year-round.
Low Maintenance: Requires minimal pruning and care.
Formal Appearance: Provides a neat, manicured look with minimal effort.

Cons of Choosing Emerald Green

Slower Growth: Might take a bit longer to reach your desired height.
Less Cold Hardy: Can be susceptible to winter damage in very cold climates.

Thuja Arborvitae: The Classic Choice

Now, let's talk about the broader category of Thuja Arborvitae. When people just say "Thuja," they're often referring to the species Thuja occidentalis, which includes many different cultivars, including our friend Emerald Green. However, there are other Thuja species and varieties that you might consider, each with its own unique characteristics.

Key Features of Thuja Varieties

Size and Shape: Thuja Arborvitae come in a wide range of sizes and shapes. Some, like the 'Green Giant', can grow to be massive, reaching 50-60 feet tall and 15-20 feet wide. Others are more compact, similar to Emerald Green.
Foliage: Foliage color can vary from light green to dark green, and some varieties may bronze in the winter. The texture of the foliage can also differ, with some having a finer, more delicate appearance than others.
Growth Rate: The growth rate varies depending on the variety. 'Green Giant', for example, is known for its rapid growth, adding up to 3 feet per year. Other varieties grow at a more moderate pace.
Sun and Soil: Like Emerald Green, most Thuja Arborvitae prefer full sun and well-drained soil. However, some varieties may be more tolerant of shade or wet conditions.
Maintenance: Maintenance requirements vary depending on the variety. Some require regular pruning to maintain their shape, while others are relatively low-maintenance.

Popular Thuja Varieties

Green Giant: A fast-growing variety that can quickly create a tall, dense privacy screen.
Techny: A hardy and adaptable variety that maintains its green color throughout the winter.
Degroot's Spire: A narrow, columnar variety with a unique, twisted growth habit.

Pros of Choosing Thuja

Variety of Options: Wide range of sizes, shapes, and colors to choose from.
Fast Growth: Some varieties can quickly create a privacy screen.
Adaptability: Many varieties are adaptable to different soil and climate conditions.

Cons of Choosing Thuja

Variable Maintenance: Maintenance requirements can vary depending on the variety.
Potential for Overgrowth: Some varieties can become very large and may outgrow their space.
Winter Bronzing: Some varieties may bronze or turn brown in the winter.

Emerald Green vs. Thuja: Key Differences

So, what are the main differences between Emerald Green and other Thuja Arborvitae? Here’s a quick rundown:

Size: Emerald Green is more compact, while other Thuja varieties can range from small to very large.
Growth Rate: Emerald Green has a moderate growth rate, while some Thuja varieties grow much faster.
Color: Emerald Green maintains a consistent green color, while some Thuja varieties may bronze in the winter.
Maintenance: Emerald Green is generally low-maintenance, while some Thuja varieties may require more pruning.

Making the Right Choice

Choosing between Emerald Green Arborvitae and other Thuja varieties really boils down to your specific needs and preferences. Here are a few things to consider:

Space

How much space do you have available? If you have a small yard or a narrow space, Emerald Green is probably the better choice. If you have more room to work with, you might consider a larger Thuja variety like 'Green Giant'.

Growth Rate

How quickly do you want to establish a privacy screen? If you're in a hurry, a fast-growing Thuja variety like 'Green Giant' might be the way to go. If you're willing to wait a bit longer, Emerald Green will eventually get there.

Color Preference

Do you want a consistent green color year-round? If so, Emerald Green is a good choice. If you don't mind a bit of bronzing in the winter, you might consider other Thuja varieties.

Maintenance

How much time and effort are you willing to put into maintenance? If you want a low-maintenance option, Emerald Green is a great choice. If you're willing to do some pruning, you might consider other Thuja varieties.

Planting and Care Tips

No matter which type of Arborvitae you choose, here are a few general tips for planting and caring for them:

Planting: Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Gently remove the plant from its container and loosen the roots. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping it down gently.
Watering: Water thoroughly after planting and keep the soil consistently moist for the first few months. Once established, Arborvitae are relatively drought-tolerant, but they will benefit from occasional watering during dry spells.
Fertilizing: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive growth and make the plant more susceptible to pests and diseases.
Pruning: Prune as needed to remove dead or damaged branches and to maintain the desired shape. Avoid heavy pruning, as this can damage the plant.
Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Conclusion: Making the Final Call

Alright, guys, we've covered a lot! Both the Emerald Green Arborvitae and other Thuja varieties are excellent choices for adding privacy and beauty to your landscape. Emerald Green is a great option if you have limited space, want a consistent green color, and prefer low maintenance. Other Thuja varieties offer more variety in terms of size, growth rate, and color, but they may require more maintenance.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your space, desired growth rate, color preference, and maintenance requirements when making your decision. And don't be afraid to ask for advice from your local nursery or garden center! They can help you choose the right Arborvitae for your specific situation and provide you with valuable planting and care tips. Happy gardening!